2023 was Fun AF – Hubs Edition!
AF has had a fantastic year, and as we prepare to ring in 2024, we wanted to take some time to celebrate all the amazing things our community has accomplished in 2023.
Let’s take a look at how this year went for our Regional Hubs! We asked each of our Hub Directors to give us some of the highlights from the past year:
AF-California:
Led by Hub Director Aaron Castillo-White and Hub Coordinator Hannah Henriksen, the AF-California Hub is a community and network for individuals who believe in the power of liberty, entrepreneurship, and innovation to promote positive social change.
What was your favorite event of the year?
(AW) 100 Million in California event, which we sponsored along with Young Voices. California is one of the most beautiful, vibrant states in the country, and everyone who wants to live here should be able to do that. So how can we address California housing policies to make it happen?
(HH) Our holiday toy drive!
Who was your favorite speaker of the year?
(AW) Nolan Gray (at the 100 Million in California event). Nolan is a former AF Writing Fellow (and inaugural 1995 Society member!) who has become a leading voice in pushing for housing policy and zoning reform.
(HH) Tim Sandefur, who spoke about his book Freedom’s Furies: How Isabel Paterson, Rose Wilder Lane, and Ayn Rand Found Liberty in an Age of Darkness. The modern libertarian movement was founded and kept alive thanks to those three women, and Tim’s book and talk was a wonderful way to see that history illustrated.
Any stories of impact?
(AW) I just got on board, so I don’t have much to report on this front but I’m excited to get started!
(HH) I’m excited that Aaron is here now!
AF-DC:
Led by Hub Director Addison Patrick, AF-DC brings together think tank, Capitol Hill, and media staff to expand their skills, debate ideas, and explore how to advance freedom on a national level.
What was your favorite event of the year?
My favorite FUN event of the year was the SWANKY AF Holiday Extravaganza, which was held at the gorgeous Oracle townhouse on the Hill! My favorite IMPACTFUL event was our Socratic dinner on homelessness, where many shared very personal stories.
Who was your favorite speaker of the year?
My favorite speaker of the year was Adam Theo, of NOVA YIMBY, who shared his personal journey and stories surrounding homelessness.
Any stories of impact?
Too many to mention! We were able to get helpful information to approximately 300 interns and young professionals at our SOLD OUT Welcome to Washington event in the fall. We have shared information on a panel called Rising to the Top in Washington DC in partnership with Leadership Institute, we hosted Narcan training and held a harm reduction webinar with R Street Institute. Victoria Snitsar Churchill has blown up with the help of the Young Voices program. She just started her own business. Other businesses and nonprofits from other AF Community members are in the works!
AF-Northeast:
Up and down the I-95 corridor, AF-Northeast is forming a new generation of leaders working to advance individual liberty, personal responsibility, free markets, and government transparency. Through unique events like attending an annual polo match, trivia nights, and exclusive dinners, AF-Northeast is empowering new ranks of young people to dream of a freer and happier future. Here’s Hub Director Larry Gillheeney with some highlights from 2023!
What was your favorite event of the year?
Sail to Freedom (Polo had a rain delay this year sadly, we made it through, but that pushed the sailing trip into the number one spot.)
Who was your favorite speaker of the year?
Nicki Neily, Parents Defending Edu in NYC (She is an American hero.)
Any stories of impact?
I’m most proud of the team we’ve built here in the Northeast this year. Between Grant Van Eck (AF-NE Hub Manager), Sam Adofo (AF-NE Hub Coordinator), & Dana Cichon (AF-NYC Chapter Leader) we’re firing on all cylinders. Leaders make leaders, and this year has been a huge success on that front.
AF-Southeast:
Our newest Hub, AF-Southeast is a community of young people dedicated to promoting the transformative power of freedom and entrepreneurship to uplift communities and individuals alike. From networking events, to Q&A’s with established experts, to dedicated days of giving back to their communities, the Southeast Hub has something for everyone. Here are Hub Director Nico Zviovich’s highlights of the year!
What was your favorite event of the year?
My favorite event of the year was “A Conversation with Catherine Bernard on Criminal Justice Reform” on January 18th. We had a candid discussion on the criminal justice system and jury nullification and Catherine talked to one of her former clients, Javonnie Mondrea McCoy, on the stage and we heard about a jury nullification case from both of their perspectives. On July 12th, a jury in Laurens County, Georgia, found “not guilty” of the manufacture of marijuana and of possession of drug-related objects, despite his open admission that he had, in fact, grown it. It was a fascinating event and one that changed the minds of many people in the audience.
Who was your favorite speaker of the year?
It’s a tie between Ian Rowe and Javonnie McCoy. Ian Rowe gave a fantastic speech on individual agency and the importance of school choice.
Any stories of impact?
Board Member Preston Poag planned a clean up at Olley Creek, along with the American Conservation Coalition, that resulted in more than 1,000 pounds of trash being removed from the creek. It was an incredible example of people coming together to do good.