Cincinnati Edition

A unique work study program is growing its success. DePaul Cristo Rey High School opened in 2011 with 90 students. The private Catholic college preparatory school offers students from low-income families the opportunity to earn half of their high school tuition through work study. Students spend one day a week outside of the classroom working at one of more than 125 corporate partners ranging from law firms, media outlets, non-profits and museums.

First Step Home is on the front lines of the opiate epidemic and is successfully helping women return to the community drug-free, as contributing members of society.

Cincinnati City Council approves additional funding for the city's emergency communications center as questions remain unanswered about the 911 system and police response after the death of 16-year-old Kyle Plush . An interim city manager is now in place, after the resignation Saturday of former City Manager Harry Black .

One of the first African-American business districts in Cincinnati was Walnut Hills. The Lane Theological Seminary, owned by Dr. Lyman Beecher, father of Harriet Beecher Stowe, began leasing plots of land to African-Americans in the 1840s.

Food deserts, most commonly found in poor, low-income neighborhoods, are communities where residents don't have easy access to fresh, healthy food. An upcoming discussion at the Lloyd Library & Museum will address ways to eliminate food deserts and reduce food insecurity through food rescue, efficient distribution of locally grown produce and innovative growing methods.

April is National Donate Life Month. In 2016, more than 33,600 transplants brought renewed life to patients and their families. But another person is added to the nation's organ donor list every 10 minutes. And, on average, 22 people die each day while waiting for a transplant.

Starting a business is always a risk. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, a third of all businesses fail within two years. New owners have to build a customer base, manage costs, comply with local, state and federal taxes and regulations and find good employees, all while trying to maintain their original visions for their companies. But half of all small businesses survive at least five years, and businesses with fewer than 10 employees make up 75 percent of private-sector

According to a study by the Center on Education Policy , 81 percent of public school teachers believe their students spend too much time taking tests mandated by their state or district. The study also found that many teachers are losing their commitment to their field, citing multiple frustrations including pressures around testing.

They are leaders in business, law, education and volunteerism, eight women who are changemakers in our community. On May 9, the YWCA Greater Cincinnati will recognize them at the 39th annual Career Women of Achievement luncheon at the Duke Energy Convention Center.

“Courage Under Fire” is the theme for this year's YWCA Stand Against Racism campaign.