Wolf Landscape Preliminary Plan, 4th Annual Poetry Contest

We continue to work on finalizing site for the World Unity Landmark, staying informed of the process and with all the stakeholders, the BRA, Children’s Museum and the Park Department. In 2008 public meetings were held by The Boston Children’s Museum to solicit ideas from the community for Children Wharf Park. World Unity Landmark was presented as part of the development of the park. Wolff Landscape Architect introduced a preliminary plan for the park that included sketches and ideas. Their plan identified a couple of spaces for icons.

World Unity, Inc. received an endorsement from Mayor Menino recommending the World Unity Landmark as one of the icons for the park. We sponsored our 12th Annual Diversity and Inclusion Gala, October 14th, 2008 at the Boston Marriott Hotel, Copley Square. This continues to be our signature event. It generates public awareness for the World Unity Landmark and brings the diverse community to support a project that promotes diversity and inclusion. Frank Hauk, Executive V.P. Global Marketing and Customer Quality at EMC, was our keynote speaker. The event continues to draw new sponsors and was well attended.

We co-sponsored our 4th annual statewide poetry contest on Diversity and Equality with WROR FM radio. We received over 200 entries from over 14 different schools. The winners were Stephanie Brown, Lincoln Elementary School, Elise Grenier, Lincoln, Dover Sherborn Middle School, Dover, and Sheneika Smith, Swampscott High School, Swampscott. The poems were narrated by the students, produced into a public service message and aired on WROR 105.7 FM throughout the month of February.

We co-sponsored our 3rd annual professional development event with Deloitte. The theme focused on Strategies for Success in a Tough Economy. Our distinguished panel were industry leaders from EMC, WCVB TV and El Planeta. We had over 140 registrations. The event was well received.

We continue to strengthen our board with new board members. Burt Baptiste, Executive Director of Aerotek was added to the board.

Our operating expenses this year were $41,581. We raised $66,867.50 including interest for the year. Year to date our net assets are $378,614.