A huge thank you to everyone who helped make the 8th Annual Soaring Shark Tank Pitch Competition a phenomenal success! Congratulations to our winners: Third place went to Owlee from Life Male STEAM Academy, Second Place to Pittsburgh Kids Motorcycle Club (PKMC), and First Place to M.E. Tech, also from PHCSE! Congratulations to all!

Special thanks to the Board of Directors of Advancing Youth Initiative and our Corporate Sponsor TriState Captial Bank. Shoutout to our Event Coordinator, Mrs. Debra Titus for leading the event for the seventh year in a row! Our deepest gratitude to our Keynote Speaker Kahlil Darden CEO of Young Black Motivated Kings and Queens, and to our engaging MC Delaney Green for masterfully guiding the event! Finally, special thanks to everyone behind the scenes who helped to ensure the event came together smoothly! Thank you all for believing in and investing in youth innovation. The next generation of CEOs and Founders is here--and they're soaring to success!

Micro Night 2025: "Soar Into the Future-Micro Meets AI" was a HUGE success. Our scholars generated 136 orders for $3,315.00!! Not only that, but the family fun and engagement was contagious! 

Engaging with External Partners

In collaboration with Tri-State Capital Bank, the Education Partnership has demonstrated unwavering support for K-8 students by ensuring they have the essential school supplies needed for success. Through their generous contributions and commitment to educational equity, countless students have received the tools necessary to thrive in the classroom. Their dedication continues to make a meaningful impact, helping to bridge the resource gap and empower young learners in our community. 

As we celebrate the arrival of the summer solstice and start planning our outdoor activities and summer vacations, being prepared for emergencies can help your plans go off without a hitch. 

☀️ Summer Safety Tips for Families ☀️
Stay safe and enjoy the season!

🚗 Prevent Distracted Driving
Keep your focus on the road—no texting, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving. Be a role model for your children.

🏡 Yard & Fire Pit Safety
Use lawn tools carefully and keep fire pits far from the house. Never leave fires unattended and always supervise children.

🎆 Fireworks Safety
Only use legal fireworks outdoors. Keep water nearby and supervise kids with sparklers—never aim fireworks at others.

🕶️ Protect Your Eyes
Wear safety goggles when mowing or working. Encourage children to wear sunglasses to protect against sun damage.

🔥 Grill Safely
Check propane connections, avoid loose clothing, and never grill in enclosed spaces. Keep kids away from hot surfaces.

Wishing you a fun, safe, and memorable summer!

reference: https://www.mhskids.org/blog/national-safety-month-5-summer-safety-tips-students-families/