Two Initiatives Supporting Meade High School Awarded Impact Grants By Maryland Live and the Local Development Council (LDC)

The awards were presented Monday during the annual grantee ceremony and luncheon at the Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland Event Center. Among this year’s recipients were FirstTeam—an initiative that mobilizes veterans to mentor students at Meade High School—and the Meade High School PTSA.

Russett resident and FirstTeam volunteer Devin Tucker accepting a grant award on behalf of the organization.

County Executive candidate Pete Smith praised the grants as vital investments in the community. “I am here because organizations like yours made a difference in my life growing up in Chicago,” Smith said. “I stand here as a United States Marine because of your work. When my family needed food, mentors, or help with utilities, it was organizations like the ones funded here today that stepped in. I want to thank each of you for the causes you champion every day. Our community is fortunate to have you.”

Pete Smith presenting a check to the Meade PTSA. Pictured with Russett residents Jacquetta Jacobs and Rita Savage

Since 2012, the initiative has directed more than $387 million in gaming tax revenue to strengthen public safety and to support nonprofits like FirstTeam and the Meade PTSA.