Thanks to the 35+ GRYP and BLEND Members that came out on the evening of October 22nd to learn more about Kids Food Basket (KFB). Attendees had a chance to hear from the founder of KFB as well as current leadership who were able to share the organization's mission. After learning more about the organization, everyone rotated throughout different types of volunteer activities and as a group we packaged up the "sack suppers" they distribute for one school's delivery that next day. To learn more about KFB, visit their website at www.kidsfoodbasket.org .

Thanks to the eight young, local ArtPrize artists that helped make the Young Professionals ArtPrize tour, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce such a success. GRYP participated as tour guides and promoted the event to their membership base. With over 90 participants signed up for 80 spaces, the event was sure to be a success. Rainy, cold weather did not deter the group of 40 people that came out to complete the tour! Following the tour the group convened at Ottawa Tavern and heard from editorial cartoonist, Henry Paine. Thanks to the artists and the brave young professionals that joined us!

Thanks to the 23 organizations that participated in the “Get Involved” Expo hosted by GRYP at McFaddens on Thursday, September 24, 2009. With over 175 GRYP attendees the event was truly a success! GRYP members were able to walk throughout the 3rd floor of McFaddens visiting organizations such as: Junior Achievement, The Chamber of Commerce, United Way, Habitat for Humanity, American Cancer Society’s Young Leaders Council, Camp O’Malley and many more! Young Professionals were able to sign up for organizations that they were interested in and find out about membership, leadership & volunteer opportunities. With the first event being such a success a 2010 event is in the works!

ArtPrize recently concluded after bringing thousands of people to downtown Grand Rapids for a celebration of art, open discussion, controversy, and community. GRYP was fortunate to have Bill Holsinger-Robinson, the Director of Operations for ArtPrize, come speak to members on September 9, prior to the event’s launch. Bill shared his experiences as an entrepreneur, business owner, working with Rick DeVos at Spout.com & Pomegranate Studios, and of course, ArtPrize. The discussion certainly generated a buzz for ArtPrize amongst the 80+ attendees at The Photography Room, including numerous questions and inquiries for volunteer opportunities! GRYP would like to thank Bill Holsinger-Robinson for volunteering his time, the folks at ArtPrize / Pomegranate Studios for their coordination efforts, and The Photography Room (Bar DiVani) for hosting the event and providing the food.