YPC Senior Spotlight: Mariah Anstett

For the past two years, Mariah Anstett has been a thoughtful and steady presence on the Youth Philanthropy Council (YPC), bringing heart, purpose, and a deep sense of care to everything she does. A senior at Tri-County Jr.–Sr. High School, she joined YPC with a simple but powerful goal: to use her skills and knowledge to support others in her community.

What she values most about YPC is the opportunity to help turn awareness into action. “I enjoy getting to help fund solutions to problems I know are present throughout my school and community,” she shared. Through reviewing grant requests, discussing local needs, and making funding recommendations, Mariah has helped ensure resources reach organizations working on issues that matter deeply to her—like poverty and hunger, physical and mental health, and helping people feel seen and valued.

As a youth leader, Mariah hopes to remind others that meaningful change doesn’t always require grand gestures. “I hope to show people that even a small act of kindness can make a big difference,” she said. That belief is reflected in how she gives back, from helping with her school’s Veterans Day program to donating to food drives and fundraisers that support neighbors in need.

One of the most important lessons she’s gained through YPC is a new understanding of leadership. “You don’t have to be the most outgoing person in a group to be a leader and help make a difference,” she explained—a reminder that leadership often shows up through listening, empathy, and consistency.

Outside of YPC, Mariah stays busy with extracurricular activities, enjoys watching her favorite shows and movies, and loves spending time with the people she cares about. This fall, she plans to attend Purdue University to study nursing, where she hopes to continue helping others be their best selves, just as she does now.

Fun fact: In addition to speaking English and Spanish, Mariah is currently working toward becoming fluent in French and relearning Chinese, with the goal of speaking four languages!

Mariah’s compassion, quiet leadership, and commitment to service embody what YPC is all about: empowering young people to make a difference—today and for the future.

About the Youth Philanthropy Council

The Youth Philanthropy Council is a functioning committee of the Community Foundation of White County made up of high school students from across the county. Members learn about community needs, philanthropy, volunteerism, and leadership while actively participating in the grantmaking process. Since its inception in 2023, the YPC has awarded over $45,000 in grants that support their classrooms and enhance education.  In addition to reviewing applications and awarding grants, YPC students volunteer throughout the community and gain hands-on experience as local changemakers.

Support Mariah and the next generation of changemakers

You can support students like Mariah and the Youth Philanthropy Council by making a gift to the YPC Endowment Fund. Right now, donations are eligible for a 6:1 match, meaning your gift can go six times further in sustaining this program for future students.