HYPE: Community & Connection Empowered Young Professionals to Make a Difference

Attendees had the unique opportunity to engage directly with remarkable community organizations and their leaders, including:

• The Complete Player Charity: This inspiring nonprofit empowers underserved youth through mentorship and enrichment programs, helping them succeed both on and off the field. Thanks to Andy Schindling, Founder and Executive Director and Marcela Burbano, Director of Guest Services at Live! Casino & Hotel for sharing the mission and work of this organization with our HYPE attendees.

• United Way of Central Maryland: Focused on breaking down barriers to housing, health, education and economic advancement, the United Way is improving lives across our region. Our thanks to Erin Adams-Ports, Associate Vice President of Client Development, and Renee Mutchnik, Director of Communications at Live! Casino & Hotel, for discussing their transformative work and the partnership with Live! Casino & Hotel.

• The Ulman Foundation: This foundation has become a beacon of hope for young adults impacted by cancer, providing life-changing programs such as patient navigation, free housing and wellness initiatives. We are grateful to Brock Yetso, President and CEO, and Jessie Hayes, Chief Development Officer, for sharing how The Ulman Foundation is fostering a supportive community for young adults facing cancer.

• Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake: By building affordable housing and empowering families toward homeownership, Habitat helps create stable, thriving communities. Thanks to Brandon Jerome, Volunteer Manager, and Daniel Lacey from Merrill Lynch, an active member of Habitat’s Young Professionals Group, for showing how young professionals can get involved in this important work.

• Vehicles for Change: This organization transforms lives by providing reliable cars to low-income families and offering career training for returning citizens in the automotive industry. Our thanks to Lara DiPaola, Corporate and Community Relations Manager, and Terrance Grandy, VR Training Content Creator, for sharing their impactful work and offering hands-on VR training experiences for our guests.

• Business Volunteers of Maryland: Bringing the talents of local professionals to nonprofit organizations in need, Business Volunteers of Maryland helps companies create community engagement programs. Thanks to Katie Sutton, Deputy Director, and Carla Johnson, Alumni Committee Chair, for sharing how businesses and young professionals can contribute to their initiatives.