YPC Celebrates Another Remarkable Year

Leadership, service, generosity, and determination were at the center of the room as the Community Foundation of White County celebrated another successful year of its Youth Philanthropy Council program. Hosted at the historic Historic Reynolds School, the annual Dinner & Awards Ceremony welcomed more than 100 guests for an evening honoring the accomplishments and growth of YPC’s fourth cohort of student leaders.

The evening brought together students, families, educators, mentors, donors, and community supporters to reflect on a year of impact. Guests enjoyed a meal prepared by Roots Eatery & Pub while celebrating the accomplishments of YPC’s fourth cohort.

Representing all four White County school corporations, YPC members spent the year learning about philanthropy, leadership, volunteerism, and community impact while taking an active role in improving their schools and communities. Through a student-led grantmaking process, the council awarded more than $12,000 this year to support innovative educational experiences and opportunities for students across White County.

Beyond grantmaking, YPC members also dedicated themselves to service throughout the community, contributing more than 340 volunteer hours during the year. Students participated in projects that supported children, families, local organizations, and community initiatives, gaining firsthand experience in the importance of giving back and working together to strengthen the community.

The evening’s keynote speaker, Dr. Brian Dinkins, delivered an inspiring message centered on resilience, determination, and the power to forge one’s own path. His story encouraged students to embrace leadership, overcome challenges, and recognize the impact supportive relationships can have on shaping a future.

The celebration also highlighted the continued growth of the Youth Philanthropy Council itself. Since beginning fundraising efforts last year, YPC has raised more than $80,000 toward permanent endowments that will help sustain the program and create opportunities for future student leaders for generations to come.

Throughout the evening, graduating seniors and student leaders were recognized for their commitment, service, and leadership within the program. Special awards also honored students who exemplified teamwork, volunteerism, philanthropy, growth, and community impact.

The Youth Philanthropy Council is about so much more than meetings and grants. It is about helping young people discover their potential, build confidence, serve others, and realize that they have the power to create positive change right now.

As another remarkable year comes to a close, recruitment is already underway for the next YPC cohort, continuing the program’s mission of empowering the next generation of community leaders in White County.

Members of the 4^th Cohort: Mariah Anstett, Sophia Culp, Ava Getz, Addison Govert, Geroge Govert III, Ella Grennes, Paige Gutwein, Sami Hindi Jr., Lillie Jaynes, Chase Maddox, Chase Pekny, Harvey Plantenga, Shaylen Shepherd, Emmalyn Stockment, Blake Turner, Katelyn Westerhouse, Alayna Williams, Ellie Zarse, Brooke Greene.