Youth explore community, make an impact

The Community Foundation’s first summer Youth Philanthropy Experience was held in July with a class of rising freshmen who attend school in Jefferson County. The weeklong program gave students who are entering ninth grade this fall a chance to learn about philanthropy and their community.

Seven Jefferson County rising ninth graders participated in the inaugural summer Youth Philanthropy Experience.

Students learned firsthand how thoughtful giving can strengthen their communities. Participants visited local nonprofits, including The Arc Jefferson-St. Lawrence, Jefferson County SPCA, and Town of Watertown Ambulance, heard from nonprofit and community leaders, learned about local needs and volunteerism, and allocated $5,000 in grant funding. Students developed valuable leadership and civic engagement skills.

Participating students included: Emma Arndt, Mia Barayuga, Madison Cain, Grace Hale, Maddox Hartle, Lauren McManaman, and Alex Stickel. Youth Philanthropy advisors Leslie Renzi and Emily Pfeil led the program.

Since 2010, the Community Foundation has grown its programs that provide youth leadership opportunities across the region, including the Youth Philanthropy Council and Community Spirit Youth Giving Challenge.

Questions?

Contact Community Foundation Philanthropy Associate Emily Pfeil, emily@nnycf.org, or 315-782-7110, with questions or to learn more.