Youth in Philanthropy program supports local nonprofits through more than 80 grants

Apr. 19—The Community Giving Foundation's Youth in Philanthropy program presented more than 80 grants to local nonprofits Thursday.

A total of $75,000 in grants was distributed to organizations chosen by students from 15 school districts in the region.

The Youth in Philanthropy program gives students the opportunity to contribute to philanthropic efforts and learn about nonprofit organizations and the grant making process, according to a press release.

Students from Benton, Berwick, Bloomsburg, Central Columbia, Columbia-Montour AVTS, Danville, Lewisburg, Line Mountain, Midd-West, Mifflinburg, Millville, Northwest, Selinsgrove, Shikellamy and Warrior Run are involved in the program.

"The students have excelled this year, with each of the fifteen districts ensuring that this important work is executed with care and dedication," Alyssa Meyers-Sanonu, foundation director of philanthropy said. "Their efforts have not only made a significant impact in their individual communities, but also initiated a ripple effect in our region, extending far beyond these walls. They are truly an inspiring group to work with."

Carin Wharton, executive director of The Good Samaritan Mission in Danville, said her nonprofit was grateful for the $2,000 in grant funds awarded to their Many Hands Helping Others: Kids Food and Bed Progam.

"This grant will support our Many Hands Helping Others Program which supports K-12 students in the Danville Area School district by providing bags of food for kids experiencing food insecurity and beds for kids who don't have an adequate sleeping space," Wharton said.

A $750 grant awarded to the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association for their Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership will go toward accessibility efforts, according to program supervisor Marissa Crames.

"The money received will be used to help increase accessibility to natural areas at the Montour Preserve by purchasing all-terrain wheelchairs," Crames said. "We are honored that the youth of Danville have selected our cause as one they wish to contribute to."