Valley youth leadership group receives grant from foundation

YOUNGSTOWN -- Youth Leadership Mahoning Valley has received a $10,000 grant from the First Place Bank Community Foundation.
The First Place Bank Community Foundation donates grants to organizations that "improve the quality of life for communities, organizations and residents within the Mahoning Valley and contiguous localities," says the foundation's award criteria.
The grant will allow YLMV to continue its mission to identify, develop and motivate potential leaders among our youth to address the challenges and celebrate the opportunities of the Mahoning Valley.
Youth Leadership Mahoning Valley, established in 1995 and modeled after Leadership Mahoning Valley, recruits about 40 local high school sophomores each year through an application process.
The students dedicate one day per month throughout the program year to learn about aspects of the community -- government, business, media, entertainment, culture, heritage and diversity.
Participants gain, through interaction with community leaders and decision-makers, an understanding that active involvement is an integral part of community responsibility, says YLMV officials.
Youth Leadership Mahoning Valley is accepting applications for the class of 2006. To request an application, call the Leadership Mahoning Valley office at (330) 941-1980. Applications will be accepted until Oct. 31. For further information, contact Tiffany Quinones, youth program director, at (330) 941-7129.