Susan Landis Youth Philanthropists

You are our future leaders. Young philanthropists can and do make a difference in their lives and communities. The National Crime and Prevention Changing Perspectives study observed that “if youth know that their community needs them, they will realize that they can be partners in solving some of society's most vexing problems and perceive that their responsible action will improve their community and their own situation.”
  
The Susan Landis Youth Philanthropists (SLYP) is a Beckley Area Foundation program that was created in 2016 to honor BAF's late Executive Director. This program provides opportunities for youth to experience the three pillars of philanthropy: Volunteering ones time and talents, raising money for the community and awarding money to worthy charities. Adult mentors whose personal philanthropy, fundraising and volunteer activities are notable, serve as leaders of SLYP. All mentors are residents of Raleigh County and have served on either local nonprofit organization boards or advisory/fundraising groups for many years. Current mentors are Beth Jarrell, Amanda Sauchuck and Deena Salon.

Eligibility 
SLYP applications must contain the following:

• Raleigh County residents who are current high school juniors.
• Public, Private and homeschooled.
• Students accepted into the program make a 2 year commitment, serving their junior and senior years.

Throughout the year, SLYP members:

• Develop leadership and communication skills
• Design and participate in service projects
• Research and connect with local nonprofit organizations
• Learn from local philanthropists about the potential impact of giving
• Become effective grant-makers and strategic youth philanthropists

​As a member, it is expected that you:

• Are open to opportunities for personal growth (i.e. leadership skills)
• Attend monthly meetings from August-May
• Learn about youth needs and assets in our community
• Make a difference in our community
• Make decisions about granting funds to youth projects

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​In 2016, BAF board members Amanda Sauchuck and Beth Jarrell co-chaired the youth programs committee working on ways of actively involving the community, particularly students, in learning what BAF is all about. In December 2016, the BAF board approved the youth board concept and the recommendation it be named in honor of long term Executive Director Landis, who had announced her upcoming retirement. In July 2017, before the inaugural board was formed, Susan Landis former Executive Director, passed away following a sudden illness. In the words of a SLYP member during a luncheon honoring Susan, “We all leave behind a legacy, but Susan set a tremendous example by serving others and leading with integrity.”