Inclusion in Action

Each year, the Concord Multicultural Festival brings people together to celebrate the cultures, traditions, stories, food, music, art and experiences that make our community unique. At the heart of that celebration are individuals who use their own experiences and creativity to help others feel seen, welcomed and valued. We spoke with Emelyne Adios, coordinator of this year’s Festival’s global fashion show, to learn more about the inspiration for this year’s runway and how clothing lends itself to inclusion.

Guided by its mission to improve lives by harnessing the caring power of communities, Granite United Way connects individuals and families with the resources and support they need to thrive while bringing together nonprofits, businesses, volunteers, schools, and community leaders to build stronger, more connected communities. We interviewed Christina Huntress, Community Engagement Director, to discuss the actions that GUW and its network of volunteers are taking to foster a more resilient, inclusive community.

Founded in 2021, Concord-based Project S.T.O.R.Y. serves more than 125 students aged 6–21 from various African and Southeast Asian countries. The organization provides holistic support through youth programming, education, leadership development, and social justice advocacy, all aimed at empowering young people to become leaders and agents of change. Its programs address both immediate needs and long-term growth by connecting underserved youth with a safe and supportive environment along with access to education, transportation, leadership training, and advocacy opportunities. Most importantly, Project S.T.O.R.Y. fosters a sense of belonging, helping participants navigate and overcome challenges such as isolation, trauma, and discrimination. We interviewed Founder & Director Charm Emiko to discuss the organization’s mission and programs.

When addressing housing in New Hampshire, it is important to consider and support intentional choices that support independent living opportunities. Next Step Living is a first-of-its-kind community designed to support independent living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). An on-site residential life skills coordinator is available to offer guidance when needed and to plan ongoing enrichment activities that support growth, connection, and community engagement. We interviewed founder and President Mike Dennehy to learn more about the organization’s work and how we can all take steps to support inclusive housing.

As one of the most robust young professional networks in the state, the Concord Young Professionals Network, an initiative of the Chamber, promotes the growth of young individuals in New Hampshire’s Capital Region. We interviewed CYPN Steering Committee Chair Vice Alexandra Brewer, an attorney at Cleveland, Waters and Bass, P.A. and Vice Chair Sarah Glaude, co-owner of Social Club Creamery to shed perspective how investing in our young workforce benefits businesses across greater Concord.

In recognition of Black History Month, we interviewed JerriAnne Boggis, Executive Director of Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire. You can learn more about this organization and access their resources at blackheritagetrailnh.org.   Tell us a little bit about your organization’s mission.  The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire (BHTNH) is a statewide nonprofit organization

On November 20, 2024, NH Songa welcomed business leaders, community advocates, and professionals to the Moving Together Conversations: Immigrants in New Hampshire’s Workforce conference. Held at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord, the event addressed the significant contributions of immigrant workers and explored strategies to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces across New Hampshire. The