David Greene, host of NPR's Morning Edition, and Everence President and CEO Ken Hochstetler pause for a photo at the recent MEDA convention.
Everence was pleased to sponsor the recent MEDA (Mennonite Economic Development Associates) annual convention, held during the weekend of Nov. 6, 2015, in Richmond, Virginia.
Part of the Everence sponsorship included the Saturday evening plenary speaker, David Greene, host of the popular NPR morning radio news show, Morning Edition. Greene spoke about interesting entrepreneurs he has met around the world through his work.
Everence also sponsored MEDA’s second annual 20 under 35 Awards, recognizing young professional involved in “world-changing work,” including Chris Meyer, Everence Stewardship Investing Research Specialist.
“These talented young professionals are already making an important contribution, and we look forward to their future impact on the world,” said Ken Hochstetler, Everence president and CEO. “Our communities need more people like them, who are committed to living out their faith and values.”
In addition, Everence led educational sessions at the gathering. Nikki Shingle, Everence Director of Charitable Services, led a presentation on charitable giving, while Beryl Jantzi, Everence Director of Stewardship Education, led one on end-of-life planning.
Everence has long held a close partnership with MEDA.
“MEDA is a natural relationship and partner for Everence in many ways, including their work in bringing creative solutions to poverty, financially focused programs (micro finance and development) and providing an important forum for business persons in an Anabaptist faith-rooted setting,” said Bill Hartman, Everence Vice President of Organization Services. “Their annual convention is a highlight time for them, and Everence is glad to give our support there.”
To learn more about the event, visit MEDA or its awards at www.20under35.com.
About MEDA
MEDA is an international economic development organization whose mission is to create business solutions to poverty. Founded in 1953 by a group of Mennonite business professionals, MEDA partners with the poor to start or grow small and medium-sized businesses in developing regions around the world. Their expertise includes a full range of economic development tools: financial services, improved technology, business training, better access to markets and equity investment. Their work most often focuses on women, youth and the rural poor. MEDA believes that all people deserve the opportunity to earn a livelihood and that unleashing entrepreneurship is a powerful way to alleviate poverty.