In Summer 2014, the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies welcomed ten students as Youth Philanthropy Interns. This 8-week program was made possible through a grant from The Heinz Endowments and is based on its long-running similar program in Pittsburgh. Throughout their internship, students assessed community needs and developed two funding opportunities for local non-profits to apply for grants of up to $25,000 to address these needs. In addition to their grantmaking, interns created these radio documentaries.
DOCUMENTARIES
The Heart of Bedford Based on interviews with Elaine Housel (Elaine’s Wearable Art), Mike & Karla Amato (Bedford Banjo Shop), Nick & Sara Letzo (10/09 Kitchen), Tammy Wiley (Bedford Candies), Paul Sherlock (Bedford Springs Resort) and Tonya Grimes (Downtown Bedford Inc.).
Mining for the Truth Based on interviews with Ron Corl (retired mine worker/owner), Robert Koval (Mountaineer Mining Corporation), Ronald L. Musser (Musser Engineering Incorporated), John Stefanko (Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection), David Masur (Director for PennEnvironment) andValessa Souter-Kline (PennFuture).
Voices of Poverty Based on interviews with Kimberly Robertson and Cindy O’Connor (Goodwill Industries), Brandi Anthony (Goodwill Getting Ahead Program), Melissa Kreutzberger (Catholic Charities) and Holly Beckner (Salvation Army).
Advocating Acceptance Based on interviews with Kasey Caron and Grace Edwards (Richland High Gay Straight Alliance), Joe Wilson (Director, “Out in the Silence”) and Jason Landau Goodman (Pennsylvania Student Equality Coalition).
REFLECTIONS
Students reflect on their Summer 2014 internship experiences below.
Kaitlyn Thomas, (Richland High, ’14)
Abigail Paonessa, (Conemaugh Valley High, ’14)
Jonathan Skufca, (Greater Johnstown High, ’14)
Nathan Madison, (Forest Hills High, ’14)
Mikella Buncich, (Conemaugh Township Area High, ’14)
Elizabeth Stiffler, (Conemaugh Valley High, ’14)
Dan Klein, (Richland High, ’14)
Ryan King, (Bishop McCort High, ’14)
Anthony Wagner, V, Sr. Intern, (Gettysburg College, ’17)
Kendra Slis, Sr. Intern, (Robert Morris University, ’17)
More information on Community Foundation for the Alleghenies is available at cfalleghenies.org, info@cfalleghenies.org or (814) 536-7741.