BAF recently hosted a Capstone Ceremony to celebrate the graduates of its Susan Landis Youth Philanthropy (SLYP) program and award grants to local nonprofits supporting youth-centered projects. This year, SLYP achieved a milestone, awarding its highest total ever in grants—$10,631.12.
Established in 2016 to honor BAF’s late Executive Director, Susan Landis, SLYP provides young people with opportunities to engage in the three pillars of philanthropy: volunteering their time and talents, fundraising for the community, and awarding funds to deserving charities. Adult mentors, recognized for their philanthropic efforts, fundraising initiatives, and volunteer activities, serve as leaders within the program.
“The SLYP program is a fantastic opportunity for students to not only learn the process of grantmaking but also gain firsthand experience with some of the hard-working nonprofits in Raleigh County.”
— Brandon Bennett | SLYP Coordinator, BAF
During the ceremony, SLYP members Nicholas Lilly, Maggie Asbury, and Lauren Cook delivered opening remarks, reflecting on their experiences throughout their Junior and Senior years in the program. The event featured a slideshow presentation and the awarding of grants to local organizations.
Representatives from the recipient organizations attended the event, where they were recognized for their projects and funding awards. In total, nine organizations received grants, collectively totaling $10,631.12.
2025 SLYP Grant Recipients:
- Beckley Artistic Endeavors – Youth Theater Camp
- Beckley Dream Center – Warm “Soles”
- Crab Orchard Baptist Church N.O.W. Program – Milk: The Impressive Drink
- Patty’s Blessings – Just for Her Bags
- Raleigh County Public Library – Sensory Stimulation Activity Wall
- Raleigh County Young Life – Scholarships for Camp
- The Salvation Army – Healthy Habits
- The Summit Kollective – The Lit Lab
- United Way of Southern WV – Students’ Basic Needs
Anyone interested in donating to our unrestricted funds may mail contributions with “SLYP” in the memo to BAF, 1210 S. Kanawha Street, Beckley, WV 25801 or click the button below to donate online. If you are interested in starting an unrestricted fund or leaving a legacy gift, call BAF at 304-253-3806 or email info@bafwv.org.