TYPros Launches New Community Foundation

Tulsa’s Young Professionals recently announced the new TYPros Foundation which will work to develop the next generation of community and philanthropic leaders and provide strategic financial support for projects.

In an effort to expand the organization’s reach, respond to community needs, and offer diverse and consistent opportunities for its members to volunteer, Tulsa’s Young Professionals announced the creation of the TYPros Foundation at the organization’s annual Boomtown Awards in October.

The mission of the TYPros Foundation is to cultivate new opportunities that bridge economic development and sense of place by engaging young talent across the nation. The foundation, TYPF, will work to develop the next generation of community and philanthropic leaders and provide strategic financial support for projects, events or programs that advance the foundation’s mission.

“As TYPros celebrates its 10th anniversary next year, we are ready to bolster our support of efforts and initiatives close to our mission,” said Shagah Zakerion, executive director of TYPros. “To accomplish these initiatives, it is necessary for us to be bold in our approach toward community activism.”

Following the announcement, two-founding members of TYPros, Shane and Marnie Fernandez, challenged those in attendance to capture the momentum and make a pledge toward the initiative. 

“We all understand a foundation is nothing without the generous support of its donors, and the giving nature of Tulsans is clearly evident as we’ve been frequently named the most philanthropic community on numerous lists,” said Shane Fernandez, president of Southwest Operations at Nabholz Construction. “This is our opportunity to show that young professionals embody the spirit of giving.”

TYPF began accepting donations at the event, with attendees texting BOOM to 80802 to receive a link for online donation. Anyone interested in donating can text and follow the link at any time. Those donating can also use #TYPF to help spread the word through social media.

In addition to announcing the foundation, the Boomtown Awards honored businesses and individuals that exemplify and promote the mission of TYPros and ultimately help create a better environment for young professionals in Tulsa. 

Award categories are based on each of the TYPros crews. The 2014 Boomtown Awards went to: 

The Creative Catalysts award was given to the Rose District for their work promoting Tulsa’s arts and culture through innovation, economic impact and social awareness. 

The People People award was given to Jeff Nickler for working to promote qualify of life, retain top talent, and recruit the next generation of business and civic leaders to the Tulsa region.

The Visionaries award was given to Justin Carpenter for supporting entrepreneurial and innovative thinking to organically grow Tulsa’s workforce.

The Inclusives award was given to Toby Jenkins for championing and exemplifying the value of diversity and inclusion in Tulsa.

The Advocates award was given to Tulsa City Councilor Blake Ewing for his work identifying and addressing issues that affect young professionals and the future growth of Tulsa.

The Take-Charge People award was given to Dr. Gerry Clancy for promoting community engagement and leadership opportunities for young professionals.

The Green Team award was given to R&G Family Grocers for making Tulsa a sustainable community for generations to come.

The Big Picture People award was given to James Wagner for his work supporting urban revitalization to enhance quality of life and attract young professionals.

Crew Members of the Year:

• Arts and Entertainment Crew –  Lauren Harned

• Attraction Crew – Tess Mack

• Business Development Crew – Daniel Meier

• Diversity Crew – 

Dr. Sylvia Chandler

• Government Relations Crew – Chase Beasley

• Next Generation Leadership Crew – Marya Bowman

• Sustainability Crew – Julie Monnet

• Urbanists Crew – Ben Stephens

Board Intern of the Year:

• Chris Miller – Tulsa Hub

Boomtown Award:

• Lobeck Taylor Family Foundation

 

For more information, contact

Tulsa’s Young Professionals 

(918) 560-0238

www.TYPros.org