Philanthropy Tank, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth to enact positive change in their communities, successfully hosted its inaugural CHANGEmakers Summit on April 6 at Keiser University in West Palm Beach.
More than 100 students in grades 8 to 12 gathered for the transformative day that provided a platform for inspiration and learning.
“We are thrilled by the overwhelming response to our first-ever CHANGEmakers Summit,” said Amy Brand, CEO of Philanthropy Tank. “It was inspiring to see students from across Palm Beach County come together to learn, connect and explore ways to positively impact their communities.”
Philanthropy Tank, now in its ninth year, stands out as a unique platform that empowers and inspires the next generation of CHANGEMakers. By providing them with the resources and support to implement sustainable solutions to community problems, Philanthropy Tank offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students to make a real difference. Through one-to-one mentoring and funding from philanthropist investors, students are equipped to execute initiatives that drive meaningful change.
Brand kicked off the event by welcoming all attendees and introducing motivational speaker Eugene Spann, who emphasized the importance of trust and teamwork in creating change. Attendees then gained invaluable insights and skills through engaging breakout sessions led by industry experts from Bank of America, Manatee Lagoon, NCCI and UnitedHealthcare.
These sessions covered a range of topics, including financial literacy, environmental conservation, STEM and technology, and mental well-being. Following the breakout sessions, students had the opportunity to share lunch with business leaders in small groups based on their interests, including entrepreneurship, networking, community service, time management and conflict resolution.
Philanthropy Tank students Nate Goldin and Erica Frishberg shared insights into their programs, “Sharing the Arts” and “Hearing for a Change,” respectively, giving attendees a deeper understanding of the process involved in making their initiatives successful. A panel of current Philanthropy Tank CHANGEmakers further inspired students by sharing their experiences and offering guidance on how to get involved.
Sponsors for the event included Bank of America, Leadership Palm Beach County, NCCI, Manatee Lagoon, Publix Supermarket Charities, The Palm Beach Post and UnitedHealthcare.
Applications are now open for local students to become CHANGEmakers through Philanthropy Tank.
Palm Beach County students in grades 8 to 11 can learn more and apply at www.philanthropytank.org.
