Forward
A Mission-Driven Journal
By GEORGE “Marketing That Moves You”
Celebrating Community and Connection Through the Lens of 'Life is Service'
Jordan's passion for photography was ignited in 2016 during his time at Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration. Initially, he picked up a camera to uplift underrepresented communities through a blog. However, as he moved to New York City, the art of photography captivated him, and he found himself striving to capture the 'perfect' image. The 'Life is Service' series marks a return to his original purpose: using photography as a tool to highlight the humanity behind the businesses and individuals that define our communities.
GROWING TOGETHER: GEORGE's Journey Through Durham's Creative Ecosystem
The past few months have been nothing short of transformative for GEORGE moves you, and it's all thanks to Durham's incredible creative community. The name GEORGE carries deep meaning in our story – a legacy that began with my great-great-grandfather George, continued through my great-grandfather George, flowed through my grandfather Norman George Setter, and lives on through me as my middle name. GEORGE, derived from Greek, means "Earth Worker" – a fitting name for an agency dedicated to serving people and community through meaningful work on this earth. Just as this name represents a legacy across four generations in my family, our mission is to help small business owners create and nurture their own generational legacies, building foundations that will resonate through time and community. As we reflect on our journey, we're filled with gratitude for the collaborations, connections, and creative energy that define our beloved Bull City.
ChocolateCON: A Movement Bridging Black Communities Through Joy and Connection
Whether you're interested in attending the convention, joining the tours, or participating in the digital passport program, ChocolateCON offers multiple ways to engage with this transformative movement. The convention welcomes attendees, partners, and sponsors who share the vision of strengthening connections between Black communities across America.
For Wright-James, the mission is clear: "It's about encouraging people to be observers and contributors to their community. Understanding that wherever your feet take you is your community, and it's up to you to pay it forward."
Mark your calendars for April 18-19, 2025, in Washington D.C., and be part of this revolutionary movement connecting and celebrating Black communities across America.
PRONOUNCED HAY-TIE | A Story of Community, Craft, and Connection
"We're not just making good beer; we're creating social relevance with these beers," explains founder Mike Potter, discussing the brewery's upcoming anniversary release: a double hazy IPA called "PRONOUNCED HAY-TIE" – a bold evolution of their flagship Hayti Haze that playfully educates patrons about the pronunciation of Durham's historic Hayti district.
A Guide to Mindful Marketing for Mission-Driven Organizations
Mindful marketing is an approach that prioritizes authenticity, empathy, and sustainability. It transcends traditional advertising by fostering genuine connections between brands and consumers. In a world saturated with noise, mindful marketing encourages businesses to focus on purposeful messaging that aligns with their values and resonates with their audience. By considering the social and environmental impact of their strategies, brands enhance their reputation and contribute to their communities' well-being. Embrace mindful marketing to cultivate loyalty, inspire change, and ultimately create a positive impact that extends far beyond the bottom line.
Thanksgiving, Community, and the Choices We Make Every Day
Land back acknowledgments highlight the importance of recognizing and honoring the ancestral territories of Indigenous peoples. It emphasizes that such acknowledgments are not merely formalities but meaningful acts that contribute to the ongoing process of reconciliation and respect. By bringing attention to the historical context of land ownership and the impact of colonization, the article encourages readers to engage with Indigenous communities and support their rights and sovereignty. This practice can foster a deeper understanding of our shared history and promote accountability in our efforts toward systemic change and community well-being.
Building Systems for Sustainable Success
Throughout my journey working with mission-driven organizations across America, I've witnessed how a strong foundation can transform a business's trajectory. While traditional grant systems often create barriers for marginalized communities, we take a different approach. This one-time community investment will help us build the robust systems and infrastructure needed to serve our communities for years to come. The Client Fund isn't just about providing marketing services – it's about creating a framework where businesses can thrive, and communities can grow together, powered by sustainable systems that will continue delivering value long after this initial foundation is built.
How Old East Durham Businesses Are Weaving Success Together
Maylon, the creative mind behind MOMs (Middle of May Thrift & Design), was thoughtfully sifting through an eclectic collection of vintage clothing in Old East Durham, right in between the beloved Ideal’s Sandwich shop and the iconic Tony Cate’s hotdog stand, where the delicious aroma of street food mingled with the charm of the local thrift scene.
How Mission-Driven Entrepreneurs Shape Durham's Future
Discover how Durham's mission-driven entrepreneurs are reshaping our community through purpose-driven business. From ReCity's collaborative innovation hub to Club Clean's nightlife transformation and Manifest Skateshop's youth empowerment, these local leaders prove that when business meets social impact, extraordinary change happens. Join us as we explore how these changemakers are moving Durham forward through conscious entrepreneurship and community-first approaches. Featured photo by Zorah Olivia of the Manifest Skate Shop.