On Monday, Jan. 20, PUSH for Excellence and Rainbow PUSH Coalition (RPC) hosted the 36th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast to celebrate the life and legacy of the late civil rights icon. Among the distinguished guests were RPC founder Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. and Sierra Club Executive Director Ben Jealous, who delivered the keynote speech to an audience of elected officials and key leaders in the business, civic and faith communities.
Related Midwest’s own Mark Goeden was honored with the “Innovative Urban Development Award,” one of eight individuals who were recognized by PUSH for significant contributions in the areas of urban development, social justice, education and humanitarian work.
For more than a decade, Related Midwest has supported PUSH’s efforts to advocate for social change. We have shared insights on business growth and job training at PUSH-hosted contractor sessions while also engaging in youth events focused on STEM education and careers in the trades. These efforts have included summer internships for PUSH students with an interest in architecture and design, engineering, construction and/or development, who benefit from direct engagement with executives and real-world experience on jobsites. In addition, Related Midwest has participated in PUSH’s nationally televised programs, volunteered at the organization’s food drives and supported its involvement in the Bud Billiken Parade by building floats and arranging transportation.
In addition to participating in these efforts, Mark Goeden, who serves as Vice President of Construction at Related Midwest, advised RPC on the preservation and stabilization of its headquarters, spearheading a plan for improvements to the roof, masonry, windows, mechanical systems and interior finishes. He also helped secure donations and commitments for at-cost construction services on the project.
Congratulations to Mark and all of the honorees recognized at this year’s event!
