The Hear Foundation

Leon Ford is celebrating his 32nd birthday that is coming up on March 16 with purpose! Instead of gifts, he’s raising $10,000+ to send students to the NOBLE Conference and support Bridging the Badge—empowering young leaders and strengthening community trust. Every donation lights a candle for change. Let’s make Leon’s birthday wish come true! ?? Donate now: https://lnkd.in/ezbD_Vmr ?? Share & spread the word! #LightTheCandle #LeonsBirthdayImpact #TheHearFoundation

Shop today at our new online store and be part of the change: https://lnkd.in/gsd4hmUV Every dollar above the cost of our merchandise goes directly toward supporting The Hear Foundation’s mission to create lasting social change in our community. By wearing or using our thoughtfully designed products, you’re not just showing your support—you’re helping to fund vital programs that amplify impact and uplift lives.?

?? Join us in welcoming José Diaz as The Hear Foundation’s new Director of Programs! With nearly 20 years of experience in nonprofit and community work, José brings his passion for equity, education, and storytelling to the role. Most recently, he led groundbreaking initiatives at YMCA of the USA to advance anti-racist and multicultural development. As a trainer with The People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond, he’s committed to creating lasting change. A proud Nuyorican and advocate for the Puerto Rican diaspora, José is dedicated to making a positive impact on communities nationwide. We are thrilled to have him on board! #TheHearFoundation #Community #SocialAction - with José A. Diaz, MSW

The 27th Annual Pittsburgh Racial Justice Summit hosted by Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC), YWCA Greater Pittsburgh, and WZUM is coming up on Saturday! This year’s theme is People Power & Progress: Community Engagement for Justice & Accountability. We hope you can join us for critical discussions on how to build connections and coalitions across differences to collectively work toward racial justice in Pittsburgh and beyond. Jasiri X, a dedicated artist, advocate and the CEO/Co-founder of 1Hood Media will be giving the keynote address at 10:00AM, and you don’t want to miss it! Register today to reserve your spot:?https://lnkd.in/eGsBbm-v

We can’t wait to celebrate Leon Ford next week as he is recognized by City & State PA as one of Pennsylvania’s most influential Black leaders during their Black Trailblazers Event, an evening of recognition, inspiration, and networking.

Do you know a high school student who would be interested in experiencing police training and learning about the roles and responsibilities of the Police Bureau? Registration is now open for the Pittsburgh Student Police Academy. The free program is a great opportunity to learn more about law enforcement and build relationships with Officers in a safe and entertaining environment! Applications are being accepted at https://lnkd.in/dpXQPW3p until Friday, February 28.

Merch is HERE and we hope you'll love it! Every dollar above the cost of our merchandise goes directly toward supporting The Hear Foundation’s mission to create lasting social change in our community. By wearing or using our thoughtfully designed products, you’re not just showing your support—you’re helping to fund vital programs that amplify impact and uplift lives. Shop today and be part of the change: https://lnkd.in/gsd4hmUV

Our friends at The Pittsburgh Promise are now accepting applications for their 2025-26 cohort of Promise Ambassadors. Rising 11th and 12th graders across PPS and Promise-Eligible charter schools are encouraged to apply. Students must meet Promise residency and enrollment requirements to be considered. They do NOT have a minimum GPA requirement for this program. If you believe a student would benefit from visiting 20+ colleges, learning about the post-secondary process and financial aid, and increasing their communication skills, please encourage them to apply!

Registration for the Pittsburgh Citizen Police Academy is open until Saturday, February 15. The free program offers citizens a chance to experience police training and learn about the roles and responsibilities of the Police Bureau. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about law enforcement and build relationships with Officers in a safe and entertaining environment! Apply today at?https://lnkd.in/dpXQPW3p

There is still time to request funding for The Hear Foundation's Winter 2025 Impact Grant funding cycle. Nonprofits and community organizations are invited to apply for financial support, up to $40,000, for efforts that promote public safety through work in one or more of THF’s three pillar areas; Gun Violence Reduction, Healing Trauma, and Workforce Development. Proposals are due by the end of the day on Monday, February 10, 2025.?Please see the online application to learn more and to apply for funding: https://lnkd.in/e9wbEh5g