20 Under 40
Opelika’s 20 Under 40 program is made up of 20 outstanding people under the age of 40 who live in Opelika, love Opelika, and have a vested interest in shaping the direction of this city’s future. The purpose of the program is to bring together young professionals from diverse professions and backgrounds on a regular basis to learn about the various aspects of the intricate workings of a city, school system, business, industry, and public service to give them a better understanding of how all of these separate entities come together to create a working, viable community.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE WITH THIS YEAR'S SERVICE PROJECT
The Curtis House Greenhouse
What is The Curtis House?
The Curtis House is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, proudly led by the Curtis family. It serves as a safe and welcoming space for people of all ages—children, adults, and the elderly. The Curtis House assists individuals in transitioning from poverty to productivity in a self-sustainable capacity. Their focus on physical, emotional, intellectual, and financial wellness helps individuals reach their full potential and thrive.
The Problem Our Class Found
In our community, many families face food insecurity and limited access to fresh, nutritious produce. The need for affordable food options and nutritional education has never been greater. That’s why the 20 Under 40 Class is partnering with The Curtis House to build a new greenhouse—an initiative that will transform lives and strengthen our community.
This greenhouse will:
- Provide free, fresh produce to over 150 families in need.
- Create an authentic market experience, offering dignity and access to healthy food.
- Offer nutrition and sustainability education, empowering residents to grow and maintain their own produce.
- Support the community garden’s expansion, helping Opelika families achieve long-term food security and fiscal responsibility.
Your donation to the Greenhouse Project will make a lasting impact—bringing fresh food, education, and hope to the Opelika Community.
Together, we can cultivate a healthier, more sustainable future.
Join us in planting the seeds of change. Donate today and help us grow!
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US:
joyjmwmelton27@gmail.com
katiebec68@gmail.com
MEET THE 2024-2025 CLASS
Amanda Burgett
Opelika Police Department
Artrina Thomas
Opelika Housing Authority
Awbrey Mitchell
Auburn Opelika Tourism
Barron Futral
Womack Machine Supply
Chris Olen
Realtor, Porter Properties
Christopher Rhodes
Southern Union State Community College
Courtney Windham
East Alabama Health
Dana Caypless
East Alabama Health
Dean Jones
Opelika City Schools
Doug Barfield
Hilyer & Associates, CPAs
Emmaree Wilson
Ferdous Finklea
Pharmavite
Joy Melton
Kalaigh Sullins
The Heart Center Cardiology
Katie Butler
Katiebec’s
Ryan Lemoine
The Barber’s Lounge
Shenice Smith
Shree Summerlin
Vanessa Benitez
Regal Rexnord
Vishal Shah
Niagara Bottling, LLC