Three local nonprofits benefit

Staff report

WARREN

The Raymond John Wean Foundation awarded grants totaling $160,225 to three local organizations: JA Worldwide, Mahoning Valley College Access Program and Youngstown CityScape.

The awards, approved at the foundation board’s September meeting, support initiatives that focus on educational opportunity, economic opportunity and community revitalization.

“Each of these organizations has an exemplary track record of engaging in programs that clearly focus on the foundation’s issue priorities,” said Jennifer Roller, foundation interim president.

“It’s an honor to serve as a resource for programs that provide access to capital and investment, promote college access and support community- driven efforts intended to develop and revitalize the Valley,” she said.

JA Worldwide, formerly known as Junior Achievement of Mahoning Valley, received up to $95,225 to support continuation of their I Can Save program during the 2013-14 and 2014-15 academic years.

I Can Save, a children’s development account, helps low-income children and their families in the Youngstown City Schools acquire a habit of regular saving, become familiar with mainstream financial institutions and, ultimately, purchase a productive asset such as a home, small business or a college education, Roller said.

The Mahoning Valley College Access Program was awarded $50,000 for continued general operating support to solidify and expand its services, along with another year of donated office space at the foundation. The organization provides no-charge college-access services including one-on-one advising, financial-aid assistance and scholarships in Trumbull, Mahoning and Columbiana counties, with an emphasis on Youngstown and Warren city schools.

Youngstown CityScape, a grass-roots organization committed to building partnerships with volunteers, residents, businesses and organizations to clean up, restore and beautify Youngstown, received $15,000 in operational funding to continue basic maintenance of beautification projects in downtown Youngstown.