You are our future leaders. Young philanthropists can and do make a difference in their lives and communities. The National Crime and Prevention Changing Perspectives study observed that “If youth know that their community needs them, they will realize that they can be partners in solving some of society’s most vexing problems and perceive that their responsible action will improve their community and their own situation.”

The Susan Landis Youth Philanthropists (SLYP) is a Beckley Area Foundation program that was created in 2016, it honors BAF’s late Executive Director. This program provides opportunities for youth to experience the three pillars of philanthropy: Volunteering ones time and talents, raising money for the community and awarding money to worthy charities. Adult mentors whose personal philanthropy, fundraising and volunteer activities are notable, serve as leaders of SLYP.

All mentors are residents of Raleigh County and have served on either local nonprofit organization boards or advisory/fundraising groups for many years. Current senior mentors are Sabrina Triplett , Suzanne Higgins, Jason Lowe, Cameron Shannon, Penny Lowery and Rachel Carrico. Our current junior mentors are Deena Salon, Michelle Leftwich, Alicia Lett and Rachel Hopkins.