We are always asking ourselves at Leadership Buffalo (LB), how can we make Buffalo better? In 2012, we implemented class projects to follow the program year. At the last day session and closing retreat, the group is charged with developing a project or projects utilizing all the information they learned throughout their LB year.

Many classes have "adopted" an agency or organization and continue to work with them based on their needs. The 2013 class is still working with the Food Bank's BackPack Program at Hamlin Park School and the 2014 class continues to make differences at Matt Urban Hope Center.

One of the projects to come out of the 2015 class is FEED Buffalo. This project offers the opportunity to give and assist different charities throughout the year through collections made during social gatherings.

Cyndie Huynh (RL '15) of Roswell Park, one of the projects team leaders, says, "While volunteering is a great way to help, the idea of FEED is to utilize parties, dinners, and events in which we are already participating as another avenue to assist organizations." The event supports a different agency each time; the class has supported Toys for Tots, The Food Bank of WNY, The BISON Children's Scholarship Fund and Boys and Girls Clubs.

"It is a great way for LB alumni to stay connected while increasing our impact by appealing to a larger audience," said Huynh.

This Thursday, at Leadership Buffalo's 5th Annual Recruitment Open House, the class be supporting the Boys and Girls Club of Buffalo and their Backpack Program. They are asking for packages of lined paper, pens, pencils, pocket folders, backpacks or monetary donations.

To read more about our class project initiative, click here and see how you can help!