A Year of Impact

The Youth Philanthropy Council (YPC) of the Community Foundation of White County recently held its final meeting of the school year, closing out a season marked by growth, leadership, and meaningful community impact.

Throughout the year, students met regularly to learn the fundamentals of philanthropy, grantmaking, and the role of the Community Foundation. They explored how charitable dollars can be used to meet needs, strengthen schools, and support long-term community wellbeing.

A key part of their learning included training in Search Institute’s 40 Developmental Assets, helping students better understand the relationships, opportunities, and supports that allow young people to thrive. This framework not only shaped their perspective but also influenced the way they approached their work as grantmakers.

Putting that learning into action, YPC members developed, marketed, and awarded more than $12,000 in grants to local schools this school year. Funded projects reflected a wide range of student interests and needs, including opportunities for medical students to visit a cadaver lab, partnerships with professional musicians to enhance music education, updated art displays for student showcases, and more.

Beyond grantmaking, students engaged directly with community leaders and volunteers. A panel featuring Molly Childers of Purdue Extension, Mark Newman of Monticello Rotary, and Don Kolezar of the White County Food Pantry offered insight into the importance of volunteerism and how young people can get involved. Students also heard from White County Councilmen Butch Kramer and Jim Annis on the topic of community leadership, gaining a deeper understanding of civic engagement and service.

Service is a core expectation of the program, with each student completing at least 10 hours of volunteerism each semester. These experiences allow students to connect more deeply with their community while putting their leadership into action beyond the classroom.

YPC members also took time during the holiday season to send Christmas cards to local veterans, offering a simple but meaningful gesture of gratitude. They also connected with Women Giving Together to learn more about the upcoming Wall That Heals exhibit and explore ways they can be involved in supporting the effort.

While the regular meeting schedule has come to a close, the work of this cohort is not finished. Students will continue to stay connected over the summer through volunteer opportunities and social activities, building on the relationships and leadership skills developed throughout the year.

The group will gather later this spring for the annual Youth Philanthropy Council Dinner & Awards Ceremony, taking place on Monday, May 18 at 5:30 PM at the Reynolds School. The evening will celebrate the year’s accomplishments and give the community a chance to see firsthand the impact these students are making.

Supporting the Youth Philanthropy Council has never been more exciting. Right now, donations to grow and sustain the program are being matched 6:1, creating an incredible opportunity to invest in the next generation of community leaders.

With another successful year behind them, the Youth Philanthropy Council continues to grow as a powerful example of what can happen when young people are given the opportunity to lead, serve, and invest in the place they call home.