ML Interest Tag: philanthropist

New York City-Inspired Baby Names We Love

by Mimi O'Connor

The options seem limitless, with history-makers, magnates, and iconic figures from every era and discipline, all hailing from, or making their mark on the Big Apple. We rounded up some of the usual suspects and lots of classic baby names, and also looked for some fresh kids’ names that pay tribute to NYC.  No baby on deck? Maybe one of these New York names will hit the spot for that dog you are adopting from the Humane Society.

Anthony 
There are many famous Anthonys from NYC, but for now we’re going with Fauci, a hometown guy from Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.

Apollo
Sure, it’s a lot to live up to, what with the god of the sun thing and all—but aim high and pay tribute to this legendary Harlem theater at the same time.

Apple
With apologies to Gwyneth and Chris, we were the first Apple. Go big!

Astoria/Astor
One of several neighborhood-inspired names on this list, Astoria is named for John Jacob Astor, a wealthy early 19th-century investor in NYC real estate, but we think it sounds almost Disney-princess-like. Astor is also kind of royal.

Audrey
Yes, Hepburn is strongly associated with NYC thanks to her iconic role of Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, but we’re thinking of Audrey Munson, model for scores of major statues around New York City, including the figure atop the Manhattan Municipal Building—second tallest in the city, after Lady Liberty.

Bill Cunningham
Have twins? Name one Bill, one Cunningham, and know that you are paying tribute to one of the most amazing New Yorkers ever to traverse, and document the city.

Baldwin
Inspired by this Black poet from Harlem, this is an alternative to his first name James.

Brighton
A name pegged to a famous Brooklyn beach and neighborhood with Russian and Eastern European roots.

Brooklyn
This New York name might have seemed unusual at some point is now in danger of being too common. Still, it’s a great borough and the name shows true Kings County pride!

Cab
In addition to the omnipresent vehicle, Cab Calloway was a major figure in the Harlem Renaissance. (We also like “Taxi” for a cute girl’s nickname, but it’s not as subtle.)

Carnegie
As in the Hall, named for steel magnate, businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.

Coney
Employ it as a nickname (for Cornelius?) or use it as a standalone, this one has lots of south Brooklyn spirit.

Dorothy
Ms. Parker, one of New York’s sharpest wits, would approve. (Parker works, too.)

Duke
While not an NYC native, Duke Ellington made the city his home and became a major cultural force during the Harlem Renaissance as bandleader of the Cotton Club. We like Ellington as well.

Ed
A name that seems ripe for a comeback, this one pays homage to one of the most iconic, recognizable, “New Yorkiest” mayors the city has ever had, Ed Koch.

Edith
Downtown doyenne (and first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize, thank you very much) Edith Wharton inspires this name from another era.

Eloise
Sure, she’s a fictional character, but she’s one of the most famous little New Yorkers out there! We love this New York name for a girl with a little spunk!

Emily
When her husband Washington, chief engineer of the Brooklyn Bridge succumbed to an illness, Emily Warren Roebling saw the project to its completion. (She was also one of the first people to cross it when it was done!)

Emory
While you may not be familiar with his name, architect Emory Roth designed so many of the iconic New York City buildings and hotels of the 1920s and 30s that you know and likely love. (Obviously, Roth could be a good choice as well.)

Fran/Frances/Francis
Fran Liebowitz has got to be one of the New Yorkiest New Yorkers out there.

Frederick (Law Olmsted)
Take your pick (and level of pretentiousness) with any part of the famed landscape architect’s name. (He’s one of the masterminds behind the designs for Central Park and Prospect Pack. For extra geek points and eyerolls, go for twins or siblings name Olmsted and Vaux, the name of his partnership with Calvert Vaux.)

George Gershwin
Either one! The groundbreaking composer was born in East New York, Brooklyn and became a major force on the legendary Tin Pan Alley, Broadway, and beyond.

Gracie
A nod to the official New York City mayoral residence, Gracie Mansion, named for early 19th-century businessman (and original owner of the house) Archibald Gracie.

Gray (Lady)
It’s the historic nickname of the paper that publishes “All the news that’s fit to print”—either could be the name of your New York City kid.

Greenwich
Inspired by the artsy downtown village, this name offers a nice mix of funky flair and subtle sophistication. (Like the neighborhood itself!)

Hamilton
You’ve heard of this guy. Founding father, first Treasurer of the United States of America, the man behind The U.S. Coast Guard, The New York Post, the Federalist party. And the blockbuster musical. He’s everywhere: Fort Hamilton Parkway, Fort Hamilton, etc.

Herald
A cheeky alternative to the more common spelling, “Harold”, this one references Herald Square, named for the long-gone newspaper, the New York Herald.

Herman
The author of Moby Dick (and other masterpieces) was born in New York, died in New York, and he’s buried in Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx. (For the record, we like Melville as a kid’s name, too.)

Hoyt
There’s Hoyt Street in Brooklyn, Hoyt Avenue in Queens. They take their name from Edwin Hoyt, a 19th-century NYC businessman.

Hudson
Already a popular moniker around these parts, this name pays tribute to a founder, the river named for the founder, etc. Plus, it’s got some gravitas.

Jackie
She wasn’t born here, but she made New York City her home. So much so that they named a reservoir after her.

Jane
Shame on us if we didn’t suggest one of the champions of preserving so many parts of the city we love, Jane Jacobs. Jane is a classic New York baby name and we love it as a first or middle name.

Jennifer
Big in the 70s, then abandoned for Brittany and Ashley, Jennifer—here inspired by Jenny (Lopez) from the Bronx blocks herself—is primed for a resurgence

Lenny/Leonard
One’s a ground-breaking legendary downtown comedian  (Bruce, which you could also borrow), the other is the longtime music director of the New York Philharmonic, a legendary composer, and more (Bernstein).

Lexington
Sounds fancy, can be shortened to “Lexy” or “Lex”. The famous NYC avenue gets its name from the Revolutionary War Battle of Lexington, which actually took place in Massachusetts, but it was a big one.

Liberty
An inspiring concept, a New York icon. It’s hard to go wrong with this one.

Lincoln
A name with some very strong historical associations, this is also the namesake of one of our city’s most revered and iconic cultural institutions. (Which, interestingly enough, did not definitely get its name from honest Abe.)

Lou/Louis
Two musical legends, of different genres. Go downtown cool and pay tribute to Lou Reed, or name-check jazz man Armstrong a New Orleans native who famously settled in Corona, Queens for decades. (You can still visit his house!)

Macy
It’s “The World’s Largest Store!” And what kid wouldn’t get a kick out of “Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade”, etc.?

Moses
It’s a heavy name, no matter how you slice it. Tap your inner urban planner (you have one, right?) and pay tribute to Robert Moses, who, love him or hate him, shaped the city we live in today.

Patti
Pay tribute to one of the coolest kids around, Patti Smith, with this one. Got twins? How about Patti and Smith? Patti and Robert? Patti and Maple?

Peggy
Art collector, patron, and socialite Peggy Guggenheim left her mark on the city and the world with her wealth and taste. While Guggenheim is quite the mouthful, Peggy is a New York name we can get on board with.

Rocky/Rockefeller
A builder and benefactor of the city, a center of midtown. However you slice this name—inspired by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., it’s got presence and gravitas.

Roe
A shortened version of Roebling, the surname of the chief engineer of the Brooklyn Bridge and his wife Emily, who played a key role in the completion of the span after her husband fell ill.

Roxy
Similar, but different. S.L. “Roxy” Rosenthal actually worked with Rockefeller—he’s the showman behind Radio City Music Hall, the grand theater a stone’s throw from John D’s “City Within a City.”

Ruth
Used to sound old-fashioned, but now it’s fierce as hell thanks to this Flatbush, Brooklyn native. #RGB.

Shirley
Just old-fashioned enough to be in style again, this name pays tribute to Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to Congress and the first woman and African American to seek the nomination for president of the United States of one of the two major political parties.

Smith
A well-known street in the Boerum Hill area of Brooklyn, the thoroughfare gets its name from one of the borough’s original mayors (back when it was its own city), Samuel Smith.

Teddy/Theo
Born here (Gramercy Park), Police Commissioner, Rough Rider, and President of the United States. Take your pick with Theodore Roosevelt: Theo, Teddy, Roosevelt, Theodore

Tiffany
Not the singer, the iconic jewelry store. (Maybe mix it up and name your child Tiffany Audrey.)

Walt, Whitman
Hero of Brooklyn and free, wild spirits everywhere, this poet offers plenty of inspiration and variation: Walt, Whit, Whitman. They all sound good to us.

Wharton
Another nod to novelist Edith, but for boys. (Possible downside: Nickname “Wart.”)

Make sure to capture all your little New Yorker’s biggest moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

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31 Baby Names Boston Parents Will Totally Get

by Allison Sutcliffe

Boston is known for many things. Our great sports teams. Fantastic attractions that bring visitors from all over the world. And the city’s storied history (who else can claim a molasses flood or the largest art heist in the world?). So we thought it would be fun to gather up the city’s popular places, people and historically significant spots and turn them into a list of Boston baby names for a little fun and inspiration. Whether you’re expecting, or you just want to see how your kiddo’s name stacks up, these Boston-themed baby names are all the inspiration you need. Read on to find out just how “Boston” your kiddo really is.

a bay smiles on a mat
Daniel Thomas via unsplash

Abigail

A powerful woman in American history, Abigail Adams was one of the founders of the United States, bearing the designations of second First Lady and first Second Lady. She is well known for her numerous letters to her husband John Adams that are filled with complex, political discussions. 

Amelia

While the first woman to fly across the Atlantic originally hails from Kansas, Amelia Earhart moved to Medford, MA with her mother and sister following her mother's divorce. Amelia makes a powerful middle or first name that definitely stands the test of time. 

Beacon

Boston parents have a number of street names that work well as baby names, with Beacon topping the list. You could even go for Bea as a girl's name. 

Benjamin or Franklin

One of the founding fathers of the United States, Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston in 1706. A scientist and inventor, Franklin is most known for his discoveries relating to electricity. 

Brockton

A suburb of Boston, Brockton makes a strong first or middle name, with Brock as a nickname. 

Brookline

We love this name for a girl as it differs from the more popular Brooklyn. It pays homage to this neighborhood just a few T stops past Kenmore Square. 

Brady

This one's for you, Patriots fans. Quarterback Tom Brady has made the names Thomas and Brady popular among fans in recent years. We'll have to wait and see if his recent split from the team will change that trend.  

Bruin

Another for the sports fans out there, Bruin pays homage to the hometown hockey team and makes a good middle name (or dog name, for that matter). 

Cambridge/Cam

We love the name Cambridge for a girl with Cam as the nickname. This name conveys a brilliant sophistication of the college town that is home to Harvard, with a double meaning for sports fan, acknowledging Boston Bruins president Cam Neely. 

Celt

Boston is steeped in Irish history and this name (pronounced "Kelt") is the ultimate. Bonus: it doubles as a Boston Celtics reference. 

Charles

The Charles River is an 80-mile river that meets the Atlantic Ocean in Boston and Charles (or Charlie) are classic names we love. 

Chelsea

Named for a neighborhood in London, this working class city just north of Boston is bordered on three sides by water. 

 

Clara, Clarissa or Harlowe

Clara Barton (born Clarissa Harlowe Barton) was a pioneering American nurse who founded the American Red Cross and was born in North Oxford, MA. Barton is noteworthy for doing humanitarian work and civil rights advocacy at a time before women had the right to vote. 

Conan

Irish Catholic comedian Conan O'Brien hails from Brookline, MA where he attended school through high school, followed by nearby Harvard University. 

Copley

Copley Square, named for painter John Singleton Copley, is a public square in Boston's Back Bay neighborhood. This Boston baby name would be great for either a boy or a girl. 

Dorothea 

Name your child after 19th century activist Dorothea Dix who lived in Boston with her grandmother for much of her childhood. She drastically changed the medical field and championed causes for both the mentally ill and indigenous populations. 

Duncan/Dunkin

Only the most die hard fans would choose the more unique spelling of this name, which pays homage to the coffee company that got its start in 1950 in Quincy, MA. 

Fenway

While this name may be more popular for pups than children, Boston Red Sox fans are a dedicated bunch and have been known to give this Boston baby name as a middle name to their human children. Plus, naming your kid "Green Monster" is out of the question, right?

Isabella

Isabella Stewart Gardner was a long-standing American art collector, philanthropist and patron of the arts who founded the museum with her name in the early 1900s.

Jasmine

Parents raised in the '80s will know why this name is on our list. Anyone who watched the Cosby Show spinoff, A Different World, is hip to Boston-born actress Jasmine Guy, who played the part of Whitley Gilbert.

John, Jack or Kennedy

It's no surprise to see these popular names around Boston as the Kennedy family has a long history in Massachusetts.

Jordan 

This '80s-throwback name is popular for both boys and girls, especially for fans of the boy band New Kids on the Block that hails from Dorchester, MA. 

Logan

You don't have to be an aviation geek to name your offspring after Boston's seaside airport. 

Lois

Maybe you and the kids have seen the works of this respected artist gracing the walls of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts or at the National Center for Afro-American Artists (NCAAA) in Boston. Born in 1905, Lois Mailou Jones' successful career spanned continents and decades. 

Lucy (or Stone)

In 1847, Lucy Stone of West Brookfield, MA graduated from Oberlin and became the first Massachusetts woman to receive a college degree. She spoke out for women's rights and against slavery at a time when women were discouraged and prevented from public speaking. 

Mary (or Eliza)

It's no secret that there are tons of Catholic families raising kids in Boston, so this name may seem obvious to include. But we're giving it a second look as a way to honor the work of Mary Elize Mahoney, the first African-American nurse to work in our country's hospitals. She worked for 15 years, while she waited to be let into nursing school, and was only one of four students (out of 43) who actually graduated. 

Quincy

We love this name for either a boy or a girl and it has long-standing Massachusetts roots with Quincy, MA being known as the "birthplace of presidents." Both John Adams and his son John Quincy Adams were born there. When the town split from Braintree, it was named Quincy after Colonel John Quincy, maternal grandfather of Abigail Adams and after whom John Quincy Adams was also named

Revere

Prominent Boston silversmith Paul Revere is best known for his midnight ride to alert the colonial militia in April 1775 to the approach of British forces before the battles of Lexington and Concord. The town of Revere, MA was named after him in 1871. 

Skylar

Do you really know anything about Boston if you haven't seen Good Will Hunting? We think not. The name Skylar was made popular after Minnie Driver played a character with this name in the movie that was written by Cambridge, MA friends Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. 

Tremont

This prominent street in Boston takes you along the Boston Common, through Boston's Theater District and across the Massachusetts Turnpike (affectionately know as the "Mass Pike"). We love it as a boy's name. 

Trinity

Trinity Church is located in the Back Bay neighborhood of Boston and was founded in 1733. 

—Allison Sutcliffe & Kate Loweth

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15 Dallas-Inspired Baby Names We Love

by Gabby Cullen

Anyone who lives in Dallas knows that it’s not only the norm but also highly encouraged to go big or go home. That’s why we’ve curated a list of baby names that not only make a statement but also pay homage to the history and culture of Big D. From famous TV characters to historical figures whose contributions have made the city the place it is today, scroll down to see our favorite monikers that swagger in a way that folks living in Dallas (and the surrounding metroplex) can replicate with ease.

Gabby Cullen

J.R.

As in John Ross Ewing, as in the patriarch of the iconic ‘80s show Dallas. Played by legendary actor Larry Hagman, J.R. is as synonymous with the city of Dallas as is its NFL team, the Dallas Cowboys.

Kennedy

Dallas is forever a major part of American history—for being the place where JFK was assassinated. The Sixth Floor Museum and the grassy knoll are one of the most visited landmarks in the city.

Austin

It might be the state capital, but it’s also the last name of Lloyd G. Austin, a pastor at St. John Missionary Baptist, in the all-black community of Mosier Valley, for over 40 years. He was also an early presence in North Texas race relations during the late ‘50s, as he and his family were one of the first African-American families to buy a home in an all-white neighborhood of Fort Worth. They withstood and ultimately prevailed over direct attempts to be ousted from the community.

Gabby Cullen

Dallas

If you’re going to honor Big D, why not just go with the city itself?

Emmett

Emmett Smith is known as one of the best running backs of all time, and he spent a majority of his career playing for the Dallas Cowboys. During the team’s ‘90s heyday, he won three Super Bowls with the team. He is the only running back to win a Super Bowl, an MVP of the Year award (both for the Super Bowl and the entire NFL) and an NFL rushing crown all in the same season. He also was a very popular contestant (he won!) on the third season of Dancing with the Stars in 2006.

Ross

Ross Perot garnered national attention as the businessman who ran for President as an Independent in 1992, against Bill Clinton and George Bush Sr. But, for those who live in Dallas, he’s also the billionaire philanthropist for whom the award-winning Perot Museum of Nature & Science is named.

 

Cory Collins via Unsplash

Erykah

For Erykah Badu, the Grammy-award winning neo-soul songstress of the big hats. Born and raised in Dallas, she attended high school at renowned Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts—a magnet school for the arts. She went on to release several albums and win a multitude of awards.

George

George W. Bush served as the 43rd President of the United States. He was also the governor of Texas from 1995-2000. After eight years in the White House, he and wife Laura made Dallas their home base. Dallas is home to his presidential library, and he is a big supporter of local university Southern Methodist University.

Fenix

Popular restaurant chain El Fenix started in Dallas in 1918 and is the country’s oldest Mexican restaurant chain. Some also claim El Fenix is the birthplace of Tex-Mex cuisine.

Matthew T Rader via Unsplash

Bonnie and Clyde

Having fraternal twins? Name them after some of America’s most famous outlaws—Bonnie and Clyde—who called West Dallas home before they set off on the two-year spree of robberies that inspired the iconic Hollywood film.

Kessler

In honor of George Edward Kessler, a pioneer architect, urban planner and landscape architect who was hired by the city of Dallas in 1908. He was responsible for solving the city’s flooding issues and beautifying the urban areas with greenbelts. Today, the Kessler Park neighborhood is one of the most beautiful in the city, a designated historic district that includes well-maintained examples of Tudor Revival, Colonial Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.

Dirk

The Dallas Mavericks wouldn’t be the same without German phenom Dirk Nowitzki. The beloved basketball player hung up his jersey in 2019, but his legend will live on for decades.

Phinehas Adams via Unsplash

John, Neely or Bryan

Put these names together, and you get John Neely Bryan. A farmer, tradesman and lawyer, he set up a settlement in the area that was to become the city of Dallas in 1841.

Trinity

Pay homage to the main water source and the vast urban forest that runs through the city.

Stevie

Honor one of America’s greatest musicians and Dallas native, Stevie Ray Vaughan. He began playing guitar at age seven, and he was performing around the city by age 12. He went on to record several smash-hit albums and tour with legendary performers and musicians such as Robert Plant, Eric Clapton and more. Tragically, the age of 35, after a concert in Wisconsin, his helicopter crashed, killing Vaughan and four others on board.

 

—Gabby Cullen

Feature image: Gabriel Tovar via Unsplash

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These Awesome Mom Inventions Are Making Everyday Life Better

by Karly Wood

We all need help getting things done. From finding the perfect carpooling app and learning a foreign language to finally taking that online sewing class, there’s a slew of mom-invented services out there to help you tap into your inner passion or just get things done. Keep scrolling to see some of our fave ways moms are changing everyday life for the better.

Better Childcare Options: Bubble Up

Bubble Up

Elizabeth Beales was a young mother and a member of the homeless community. After experiencing the damage that lack of childcare can have on family health, safety, and job security she decided to use her skills, knowledge, and network to help other parents who find themselves facing these same challenges. So she created Bubble Up, an app that helps evolve the way we think about childcare and community support. Bubble Up allows parents and families to use a simple swipe to group up with other families in a size and format that feels safe and helpful for them. Parents can share what’s important to them, when and where they need care and what their needs are. Then they can locate compatible families and/or caregivers and begin connecting right away. Bubble Up is a free service, allowing families to truly use the “it takes a village” model for childcare.

Online: letsbubbleup.com

Safe Skincare: The Good Face Project

The Good Face Project

Mom of two, Iva Teixeira has had a long career in consulting, advising large beauty brands on everything from strategy to sales. During her time in the field, Teixeira interviewed more than 100 women and found that the number one thing they looked for in a beauty brand was safety. So, in 2018, she and her co-partner founded The Good Face Project, the world’s largest data-driven index of cosmetic ingredients. The online platform uses powerful AI algorithms to analyze cosmetic ingredients and products across 15 different dimensions of safety, effectiveness, and benefits. The Good Face Project's has already analyzed more than 45,000 products and over 80,000 individual ingredients! Users can access the playform to shop with confidence on everything from baby and cosmetics to shaving and sun care.

Online: goodfaceproject.com

Community of Career-Driven Moms: HeyMama

Hey Mama

Founders Amri Kibbler and Katya Libin realized a huge piece was missing from their own lives in the workforce: a community of supportive moms with careers. To help build a community of working moms who empower each other, the two founded HeyMama, a private and professional social network. The platform now has members across the United States and helps women everywhere balance the challenges of motherhood and a career.

Online: heymama.co

Family & Kid-Based Deal Finder: CertifiKID

CertifiKID

Jamie and Brian Ratner, Washington, D.C.-area natives and parents, started CertifiKID back in 2010 when they saw a gap in the market for kid and family-based deals. Within three months, the site was expanding to other large markets and after a 2019 stint on Shark Tank, CertifiKID is now the only 100 perfect free nationwide kid and family focused resource! It offers exclusive deals on products, restaurants, birthday party activities, special needs offers, kids’ camps and classes, family activities and real mom reviews.

Online: certifikid.com

Carpooling for Climate Change: GoKid

GoKid

GoKid was founded by Dr. Stefanie Lemcke, a New York City mom determined to curb her driving fatigue due to traffic jams packed with other parents all driving in the same direction.  The free-to-download app is a way to easily coordinate with other trusted parents and create a streamlined carpooling process. So far, GoKid has saved over eight million miles of driving, has users in 25+ countries, reduced CO2 emissions by seven million pounds and is getting vehicles off the road.

Online: gokid.mobi

Designing Woman: Sew It! Academy

Norris Ford

Fashion expert and mama to four Mimi G came from humble beginnings. A survivor of domestic violence and homelessness, Mimi G has always held a love of fashion and sewing close to her heart. In addition to creating her own DIY and Lifestyle brand, Mimi G Style, the empowering girlboss also created Sew It! Academy in 2016. The completely online sewing school teaches anyone how to sew, and offers monthly subscriptions and tutorials for everything from DIY sunglass cases to evening gowns.

Online: sew-it-academy.thinkific.com

Get Stylishly Caught in the Rain: November Rain

November Rain

A woman entrepreneur and mother to three, Belinda Coker has been active in providing fresh drinking water to developing communities in Africa and Asia for over 10 years. A perpetual philanthropist and entrepreneur, her previous successful brands include Envirosax, the first designer reusable bag with environmental certification to enter the U.S. market back in 2007. November Rain was borne out of a need to fund her freshwater projects in Africa. Producing an item printed with eco-friendly dyes was a no-brainer, but Belinda also took this one step further by creating a poncho that women of all shapes and sizes could wear, whether they are blessed with curves or fabulously tall and willowy. "Unless we are a perfect industry size, there is always the issue of fit. And I wanted to overcome that, for all women," says Belinda. November Rain gives 10% of all revenue to water projects in developing countries, the ponchos are made to last and they are stylish!

Online: novemberrain.co

Bridge the Generation & Language Gap: Jamma Jango

Julia Wang

In 2012, Julia Wang left her job as Product Manager at American Express to be a SAHM to her newborn daughter. Both Julia’s and her husband’s parents emigrated from Taiwan in the 1980s and are more comfortable speaking in their native tongue—Mandarin Chinese. Julia wanted her little girl to be able to communicate with her grandparents, but she struggled to find the right resources to teach her daughter Chinese—there was a lack of anything that would hold a kid’s attention for more than five minutes and it was hard to find a program that was educational and fun. And so, Jamma Jango was born. It’s a  cartoon-based, foreign language-learning product that provides parents fun and educational language resources—all in one box. Currently, Jamma Jango offers a Spanish language and a Mandarin Chinese version.

Check it out at jammajango.com

—Kate Loweth, Amber Guetebier, Erin Lem and Karly Wood

All photos provided by companies 

 

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This Pro Football Player Just Wiped Out Over $7,000 of School Lunch Debt

by Erica Loop

San Francisco 49ers’ cornerback Richard Sherman is an athlete and a major philanthropist. The football player recently helped Cabrillo Middle School in Santa Clara, California to eliminate its lunch debt.

According to recent reports, Sherman donated over $7,491 via his Blanket Coverage-The Richard Sherman Family Foundation charity, to the school to cover unpaid lunch debts.

In a letter to Cabrillo Middle School’s Nutrition Services Department, Sherman’s foundation wrote, “We have found that eliminating student lunch debt is one way to help assist students and their families in relieving some of the stress that comes with attending school on a daily basis,” according to KPIX5. The letter also continued, “The last thing any child should have to worry about is being able to afford eating breakfast and lunch at school; we aim to do our part in eliminating that obstacle.”

So how did this donation happen? In a letter published on the school’s website, Cabrillo’s Principal Garber wrote, “On Saturday, November 23rd, 49ers Cornerback Richard Sherman pulled me from my shift as a docent in the 49ers Museum to give me a personal check for $7,491.27 to cover Cabrillo Middle School’s cafeteria debt.” Garber continued, “Richard’s gesture created such goodwill for the 49ers that they went on to sack Aaron Roger’s and the Green Bay Packers the next day on national tv by a score of 37-8.”

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Richard Sherman via Instagram 

 

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This 12-Year-Old Is Making a Difference for Shelter Dogs Across the Country

by Erica Loop

After 12-year-old Darius Brown heard about the animals displaced by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, he had to help. That’s when he jumped into action—founding Beaux & Paws!

So what exactly is Beaux & Paws? This awesome effort provides handmade bow ties to dogs in need. Not only do the dogs get a serious style upgrade, but as Brown hopes, the new neckwear may help the abandoned pets find their forever homes faster. The young philanthropist told TODAY, “It helps the dog look noticeable, very attractive.”

Brown, who was diagnosed with speech, comprehension and fine motor skills delays at age two, started making bow ties when he was eight-years-old. His older sister, Dazhai Brown-Shearz, told TODAY, “With his fine motor skills, he wasn’t able to really use his hands well—tying a shoe was challenging.” She went on to add, “My mother and I came up with the idea that if he helped us with things like prepping the ribbon or cutting it, and sewing fabric together, it would help him. And it did—it worked!”

Four years later brown is still making bow ties and helping shelter dogs across the country. And don’t think this young man’s efforts have gone unnoticed until now. In 2018 President Barack Obama sent Brown a letter of encouragement and according to Brown’s Go Fund Me page, NBA star Allen Houston, actress Kenya Moore and other notable names have recognized his accomplishments.

If you’d like to contribute to Brown’s cause, visit his Go Fund Me page here!

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Sir Darius Brown via Instagram 

 

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These College Students Just Received the Best Graduation Gift Ever

by Shahrzad Warkentin

It’s officially graduation season and along with the cap and gown comes plenty of congratulations and gifts from family and friends. For the 2019 graduating class of Morehouse College they received an unforgettable gift from their commencement speaker.

Over the weekend, billionaire tech investor and philanthropist Robert F. Smith addressed the graduation class of Morehouse College with an inspiring commencement address. Smith, who received an honorary doctorate, had already announced a $1.5 billion gift to the school. During his speech, however, he revealed to a surprised audience that he would pay off the student loans of the nearly 400 students in the graduating class.

Leaving college with a full education and zero debt is an absolute dream come true for these students and a Smith believes his gift will go on to help others. “This is my class,” Smith said, “and I know my class will pay this forward.”

—Shahrzad Warkentin

Featured photo: Shopify Partners

 

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Like a Boss: Kid-Run Companies You Need to Know

by Gabby Cullen

Your little CEO-in-training has big plans for her lemonade stand (five corners by August!); you’re just grateful she’s found a way to keep her thinking cap on during the summer months. She’s not the only one making serious change. From spinning the latest hit tunes to designing awesome socks and even whipping up all-natural cookies, flip through the album below to discover eight businesses where kids call the shots.

Super Business Girl

Known as Detroit's youngest entrepreneur, Asia Newson began selling candles with her Dad at the age of five. She came up with the perfect sales pitch as “Super Business Girl” and since then, she’s trained over 100 youth entrepreneurs. She’s still selling candles, but it’s the mission of her company, “To recognize the true potential in every child and to make optimum use of their individualized talent,” that’s really caught the country’s eye. She has spoken with local city council members, attended the Detroit mayoral debate, advocated for youth and adequate education, and has appeared on The Ellen Show, NPR and in Vogue, among other media outlets.

Community involvement is also part of the package—each time Asia sells candles, a portion of the proceeds are donated to the homeless. She’s also brought school supplies and toiletries to her school and has given away over 150 coats to children in her neighborhood. When Asia isn’t busy being an entrepreneur, activist and philanthropist she enjoys dancing, performing and hanging out with her friends.  

Find out more about Asia: superbusinessgirl.com

Does your kid have the entrepreneurial spirit? Share with us in a Comment below!

—Gabby Cullen

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Doing the New Whitney Museum With Kids

by Mimi O'Connor

Perhaps you’ve heard: there’s a new Whitney in town. After five long years, the Renzo Piano-designed Whitney Museum of American Art opened its downtown doors on May 1. Here’s the scoop on what’s new  at the museum, what’s just for kids and families, and even some tips on what to do in the area if you make a day of it.

Whitney 411

Founded in 1930 by the artist and philanthropist Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney (in a much tinier space) the Whitney Museum of American Art houses the foremost collection of American Art from the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. After spending almost 50 years on the Upper East Side on Madison Avenue, the institution has moved downtown to Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District into an expansive, modern building designed by award-winning architect Renzo Piano. (You know that crazy looking building you’ve seen under construction forever from the West Side Highway? That’s the new Whitney!)

What’s New at the New Whitney

Obviously, the building. The new digs approximately double the museum’s exhibition space, which not only means new possibilities for artists and audiences, but a significant increase in the number of works from the museum’s permanent collection that will now be on view at the museum. (Fittingly, the inaugural exhibit America is Hard to See, reexamines the history of American art from 1900 to today and is the most extensive display to date of the Whitney’s collection, occupying the entire museum.)

The new building also houses — for the first time at the Whitney — a dedicated space for education programs, as well as a multi-use, 170-seat theater.

Go for the Art, Stay for the Views

Of course, the art is impressive, but the building’s unobstructed views of the Hudson and surrounding cityscape aren’t bad, either. The floor-to ceiling windows provide great views, but the building’s 13,000 square feet of cascading terraces allow visitors to take in the city (and featured art and performances) outside.

Located on the fifth floor, the museum’s largest outdoor gallery showcases the site-specific piece Mary Heilmann: Sunset, which includes (among other elements) 40 candy-colored chairs, free for visitors to sit in and take in the sunset or urban vista.

Just for Kids and Families

On May 16 from 2-4 p.m., The Whitney will host a “Whitney Kids Opening” for families and kids of all ages. Families are invited to explore the new building on their own or on a tour, take part in an art-making workshop, and enjoy a Whitney Kids Activity Guide.

The museum will also feature ongoing programs for families and children in the new building. These include:

• “Whitney Wees”, for families with kids ages four and five which features an interactive experience of looking, sharing and working together in the galleries.

• Sketching Tours, for families with kids ages 6-10 years old, which explores exhibits through looking at art and creating experimental sketches inspired by the Whitney’s collection.

• Open Studio, for families with kids of all ages, which each week invites families to the new Hearst Artspace to make their own artwork inspired by current exhibits.

• Stroller Tours, for parents with babies up to 18 months of age, which feature Whitney Teaching Fellows leading engaging tours on current exhibits. (They say “crying babies are encouraged!”)

(Call the museum or check the web site for specific dates and times.)

Good to know if you go

Lines at the Whitney can be long. Do yourself a favor and buy tickets online before you go and you’ll get to skip the line and walk right in.

The Whitney’s new ‘hood is happening. If you haven’t strolled The High Line, be sure to do so. For food (and bathrooms) check out nearby food halls Gansevoort Market or Chelsea Market, and if it’s not too crowded, the Standard Hotel’s Biergarten is a good place to grab a refreshing drink — and giant pretzel!

The Whitney Museum of American Art
99 Ganservoort St.
Meatpacking District
212-570-3633
Online: whitney.org

 

Have you visited the new Whitney? Tell us what you thought in the comments!

—Mimi O’Connor

 

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Downtown’s Coolest Playground: Maggie Daley Park

by Kelly Aiglon

Chicago is a city with an abundance of green space and cool parks, but Maggie Daley takes the cake. It sits just outside Millennium Park, just steps from the lakeshore, with gorgeous city views. With an ice skating “ribbon,” larger-than-life climbing structures, a climbing wall and a play garden, this is worth a stop-and-play. Yep, even in the cold. Read on for the scoop.

The Lay of the Land
The 20-acre park that hugs the downtown skyline was a much-buzzed-about addition, named in honor of the late philanthropist and city icon, Maggie Daley. The former First Lady of Chicago co-created the After School Matters program, a nonprofit that offers teens stimulating out-of-school activities. The park carries on her legacy of helping kids grow and thrive, and is free to all.

photo: Chicago Park District

A Play Ship, Mega Slide & More
The southeast section of the park is anchored by a three-acre play garden, the first of its kind in Chicago. Designed in the spirit of “Alice in Wonderland” and “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” it’s meant to spark imagination and get kids moving in a landscape that’s a bit surreal and fanciful. There are challenges for all levels, from toddlers up to grade schoolers.

Some activities you can share in with the kids are climbing aboard a life-sized play ship via red ropes, scurrying to the top of a wooden lookout tower, zipping down a three-level tube slide, or walking across a wooden bridge and waving to onlookers below. There’s so much to do and—best of all—there’s plenty of space because up to 600 children can comfortably play in the garden at one time.

The Skating Ribbon
Maggie Daley Park is intended to be a destination for any season, warm or cold, and its skating feature is proof. The J.B. and M.K. Pritzker Family Skating Ribbon provides 27,500 square feet of ice surface, which is nearly twice the size of a traditional skating rink. In contrast to your typical oval-shaped sheet of ice, the ribbon is more like a meandering path. It can hold up to 700 skaters at a time.

In the summertime, they’ll say bye-bye to ice and the turf will be for roller skaters and scooters, and will also hold gallery exhibitions and special events.

photo: Chicago Park District

The Climbing Wall
The Malkin-Sacks Rock Climbing Wall will entice young adventure seekers. Its highest point is 40 feet and the entire wall is divided into different sections for beginners and advanced climbers, accommodating bouldering, lead-harnessed and top rope climbing. Between 25 and 100 climbers will be able to use the wall at a time.

There is also an “Enchanted Forest” with a mirrored maze and kaleidoscope, a harbor-like play apparatus for toddlers, and a bevy of slides including spiral, wide and rail. Event spaces will are available, as well. Imagine staking out a spot at a picnic grove or having a birthday party on a sweeping lawn.

Maggie Daley Park
337 E. Randolph St.
The Loop
312-742-3918
Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

— Kelly Aiglon

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