FORGE HERDS

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
We work to support and encourage the forging and growth of new and existing young professional-friendly businesses in the Topeka community. We also empower young professionals with the knowledge and resources to build wealth and contribute to the economic betterment of Topeka.

How: Empowering young professionals with the knowledge and resources to build wealth and contribute to the economic betterment of Topeka.
Meetings: First Thursday @ 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Events: 
• Mentor Meet-Ups

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
We work to build awareness, education, respect and acceptance of underrepresented and marginalized groups in Topeka; while also striving to ensure Forge membership is a representation of the broader community.

How: Community involvement, outreach and programming.
Meetings: Second Wednesday @ Noon - 1 p.m.
Events:
• The Live Your Dream Symposium
• The Pool Tournament
• The Playground Hunt
• The Cultural Experience Series

FORGE YOUR FUTURE
Forge Your Future is committed to advancing the knowledge of young, local residents regarding civic policy and creating opportunities for increased participation in the political process through  Nonpartisan collaboration.

How: Promoting civic engagement through efforts and events that engage residents in critical conversations regarding local issues, present access to information and celebrating involvement in local elections.
Meetings: Second Wednesday @ 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Events:
• Vote, Damn It Party
• Candidate Meet-and-Greets
• Late Late Lunch Show Videos

HEALTH
Dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Forge’s young talent.

How:
• Forge Cooking Classes: Giving Forge members a chance to learn nutrition tips, tricks and recipes from Topeka’s top chefs and restaurants.
• Forge Fitness classes: Encourage regular fitness activity among young talent in Topeka.
Meetings: As determined by committee
Events:
• Monthly Cooking Class
• Monthly Fitness Class
• Quarterly event

INSPIRE VOLUNTEERS
To help Forge members find ways to give back to the community and build a culture of service among young professionals.

How: Connecting Forge members with organizations and causes they care about by providing monthly volunteer opportunities.
Meetings: Third Tuesday @ Noon - 1 p.m.
Events:
• Day of Service
• Easter Egg Hunt
• Trick or Treat on the Trail
• Monthly volunteer opportunities

LEADERSHIP
To develop Topeka’s young talent into tomorrow’s leaders by providing them with leadership development resources that will help them shape, change and influence their community.

How:
• Board of Directors Job Board: Introducing young talent to leadership opportunities.
• LeadCon: Connecting young talent to leadership and stewardship opportunities.
• StrengthsFinder workshop: Introducing a new school of thought on developing strengths.
• Monthly Book Club: Reading and discussing leadership trends.
Meetings: Fourth Tuesday @ 6 p.m.
Events:
• Quarterly event
• LeadCon
• Tech Talk
• Monthly Book Club

PLAY
To provide fun and unique experiences leading to deeper, more meaningful connections with the community and other young professionals in Topeka.

How:
• Offering a variety socials and events each month to engage the under-40 crowd.
• Welcoming each member to the organization through friendly and positive interactions.
• Giving Young Professionals a voice in how they explore and enjoy their city.
Meetings: Fourth Thursday @ 5:30 p.m.
Events:
• Monthly Pub Club or interactive activity
• Quarterly event