Torchbearers

06/01/2026

05/29/2026

Thanks to everyone who attended our Open House tonight! We loved meeting prospective new members and connecting with so many people who want to make a difference in Akron!
Interested in joining the Class of 2027? Learn more and apply here: https://app.ui3.smarterselect.com/programs/108970-Torchbearers?from=v1

05/27/2026

A new Wall Street Journal feature on the Midwest’s population resurgence highlights how cities like Akron are attracting and retaining residents through affordability, innovation and community. The story specifically quotes former Torchbearers’ President Kyle Kutuchief and current President Alexis King!

Stories like these give us hope. Why? It tells the rest of America something we already know: Akron is a city on the rise. Young people are choosing to stay or move to our community, and we’re proud to help those young people find connection and purpose here.

If you’re a library card holder, we encourage you to use their databases to read the full story!

https://www.wsj.com/us-news/akron-ohio-midwest-population-growth-5680accb?st=92kj7r

05/22/2026

There’s still time to register for our Open House at the Akron Art Museum! Join us on Thursday, May 28 at 5:30 to learn about how Torchbearers can help you connect to and serve the Greater Akron community. Enjoy good art, company, food and drinks with Akron's young professional leaders. Bonus: It’s Free Thursday at the museum!

RSVP: https://torchbearersakron.com/event/torchbearers-open-house/

05/19/2026

Whaddup, Akron! 🔥

My name is Alexis King (‘22), I’m the current President of Torchbearers, + I’ll be taking over the TB socials for the next few days. I’m so excited to show y’all my little slice of Akron + share about how Torchbearers has impacted my life!

Some quick fun facts about me:
➡️ My husband, my daughter, + I are proud West Akronites. We’re Akron transplants who are proudly putting down roots! I grew up mainly in the west side suburbs of Cleveland + my husband grew up in Wayne County.
➡️ I’m currently almost 37 weeks pregnant with our second—a boy! 👶
➡️ For my day job, I’m the Digital Media Manager for (who, fun fact, is a TB Alum!).
➡️ Biiiiiiiiig Blimp girlie, 5:30am workout fan, avid reader, + solid Swiftie.

Questions? Fun facts? Jokes? I wanna hear it, drop them ‘em in the comments!

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05/17/2026

Are you a young professional with a vision to improve the Greater Akron community? Apply to Torchbearers today: https://torchbearersakron.com/apply/

05/15/2026

For the last few years, our members have volunteered at St. Bernard's Hot Meal Program. This is such a meaningful service opportunity that empowers our members to connect with those they are serving, as well as one another. In addition to our one-off service events, we want to keep showing up in the places we're needed the most. You can read more about this particular service event on our website: https://torchbearersakron.com/st-bernards-hot-meal-program/

05/08/2026

Congratulations to Torchbearers' own Alison Matas Smith — TB Class of 2025 and current Co-Chair of our Leadership & Development Committee — on her recognition as one of Stark County's Twenty under 40! This accolade is awarded by the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce to acknowledge those who have demonstrated dynamic leadership, social responsibility, and a committment to making a difference in the community. Well-deserved, Alison!

05/04/2026

Torchbearers members were proud to volunteer at The Longest Table! Hi! Thank you for sharing about The Longest Table! 📷 Mal McCrea

This event promoted one of our core values: Connection. Akron residents from all walks of life came together to share a meal and conversation.

We’re currently accepting applications for Torchbearers Class of 2027! If you’re a young professional who lives or works in Akron and is looking to deepen your connection to your community and neighbors, apply before June 30. https://torchbearersakron.com/apply/