Youth Philanthropy educates young people about social change in order to identify community problems and design systematic solutions. Youth philanthropy focuses on youth-adult partnerships and amplifies youth voice. Youth philanthropy develops knowledge, confidence and leadership skills and is considered an effective way to educate young people about volunteerism, service learning and civic engagement. Youth philanthropy is an opportunity for young people to articulate their vision and contribute to a community.

In the summer of 2015, members of the YLC met with the staff of the Licking County Foundation and Pathways of Central Ohio to discuss the possibility of partnering to establish a youth philanthropic council in Licking County.  The partnership established a coordinating committee to explore the options and build the first functioning youth philanthropic body in the county, Youth Philanthropy Licking County (YPLC).

The YPLC was created to empower young philanthropists to share their time, talent, and treasure within their communities and support youth voice and action in Licking County. On April 20, 2018, the YPLC officially launched in conjunction with Global Youth Service Day by selecting PBJ Connections as the first recipient of a YPLC grant. PBJ Connections, an equine therapy program, was chosen for it’s work with youth in the realm of mental health and wellness.

YPLC Grant Recipients:
2018: PBJ Connections
2019: Fostering Further 
2019: Newark Ohio Pride Coalition