Ashtabula Foundation: youth philanthropy students recognized at luncheon

Connor Ball, Star Beacon, Ashtabula, Ohio
·2 min read

Apr. 19—CONNEAUT — Youth philanthropy students were recognized at a luncheon Wednesday morning at Sheldon Calvary Camp.

The Ashtabula Foundation conducts the annual event.

"We are very proud of this program that is active in all 10 high schools in the county," said Ashtabula Foundation Associate Director Kelley Katon. "Each student sat amongst several other schools to encourage conversation and dialogue about philanthropy. This end-of-year event allows them all to come together and share the common philanthropic bond they have developed and strengthened by being part of this program."

In total, 170 students participated and were recognized for their philanthropic work in Ashtabula County.

Nearly 40 board members from the Ashtabula Foundation, the Conneaut Foundation and school youth philanthropy advisors were in attendance.

Various school superintendents and principals also showed up to show their support.

One of the guest speakers was Larry Laurello, owner of Laurello Vineyards.

Laurello said that the reason he spoke to the students was to offer "life experience and motivation," to possibly become entrepreneurs one day.

Student guest speakers were Maggie Moon from Geneva High School and Hannah Beaver from Lakeside High School.

"Joining philanthropy was one of the best decisions I made," Beaver said. "The groups is very special to me, because I feel as if it connects us directly to our community. The best part of the luncheon was being able to talk to the members of the Ashtabula Foundation and the people who have made Ashtabula what it is today."

The Ashtabula Foundation's student youth philanthropy program distributed nearly $45,000 amongst 36 non-profit charitable organizations.

"It's important for youth to learn about the needs in the community they live in," Katon said. "Seeking the needs by visiting and talking to our local non-profit agencies brings awareness, encourages empathy, compassion and understanding of how important it is to support the community you live in. Not just monetarily, but also giving your time through volunteering."