08/29/2026
Yesterday was bittersweet.
We got a chance to break bread and celebrate Emily as she prepares to move on from Inner City Innovators after being an outstanding part of our operations support team.
A lot of what keeps an organization like ours moving happens behind the scenes. Emily has been one of those people helping us stay organized, solving problems, supporting the team and making sure the Hope Dealers have what we need to show up for our young people and community every day.
So it was only right that we celebrated her over some delicious food at Zipitios, a local spot the Hope Dealers have loved for years.
Afterwards, we dropped in on our friends at Rust & Wax Record Shop, another local business that has consistently believed in and supported what we do.
And that part matters to me.
When we talk about making our city safer, we usually think about nonprofits, law enforcement, government or people working directly in the streets. But strong communities are ecosystems, and our local businesses are part of that ecosystem too.
Every time a local business believes in the Hope Dealers, supports an event, gives to the mission, opens their doors to us or simply tells us to keep going, they’re investing in young people having a more hope-filled future.
That means places like Zipitios and Rust & Wax are part of the reason our city is a little bit safer.
So yesterday was about celebrating Emily and everything she has meant to this team, but it was also another reminder of how grateful we are to be surrounded by people and businesses who believe in this work.
Emily, thank you for everything you poured into ICI. We’re better because you were here, and you’ll always be part of the Hope Dealer family.
And to Zipitios, Rust & Wax, and every local business that continues to bet on us and our young people, thank you for believing in a future where they can all live Free & Alive Beyond 25.
