Hillsdale, Michigan – August 14, 2020
One Hillsdale County Y.O.U.T.H. (Youth Opportunities Unlimited Throughout Hillsdale) member received an individual, statewide award. Lindsey Clarke, recent graduate of Pittsford High School, received the Robert S. Collier – Passion in Philanthropy award. This award is given to an individual who represents a dedication to youth philanthropy and community engagement. The Michigan Community Foundations Youth Project (MCFYP) Committee recognizes that Youth Advisory Councils across the state give a great amount of time and energy to better their communities, and they celebrate that with their annual “Yac of the Year” awards.
Lindsey Clarke has been an exceptional leader as a part of the Y.O.U.T.H. She has served with the Y.O.U.T.H. for the past 4 years and has served as the HCCF Y.O.U.T.H. Trustee for the past 2 years. Lindsey is dedicated to philanthropy and serving the youth in her community. Lindsey shared, “the YOUTH has made an amazing impact on my life because I was finally able to come out of my shell and become the person I needed to be, for myself, my school, and my community”. Lindsey’s passion and commitment to philanthropy is what makes her who she is. “It feels amazing to be recognized for my efforts within the community, the Foundation and MCFYP. Serving on the Adult Foundation Board, representing the entire youth of Hillsdale County, made this award even more special to me, knowing I have impacted more lives than I will ever know,” said Clarke. This award serves as an excellent reminder of the impact youth grantmakers and leaders can have on their community, but also serves as a reminder of the impact philanthropy can have on the youth.
The Hillsdale County Community Foundation YOUTH was established in October of 1991. The YOUTH membership is currently made up of representatives from eight public school districts within Hillsdale County, as well as Hillsdale Academy and Will Carleton Academy. The YOUTH Advisory Council has an ongoing program for studying the assets, needs, and concerns of the young people of Hillsdale County. YOUTH has a special endowment fund, initially made possible by a challenge grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, to make available grant dollars to benefit and involve young people in Hillsdale County. Anyone wishing further information regarding the YOUTH may call the Foundation office at (517) 439-5101 or visit www.abouthccf.org.
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Contact:
Caitlin Sterling, Marketing/YOUTH Program Officer
Hillsdale County Community Foundation
(517) 439-5101, c.sterling@abouthccf.org