AFP Mahoning-Shenango Chapter

06/22/2026

What can happen when a group of dedicated volunteers comes together around a shared mission?

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Volunteer Fundraising Group Award at this year's National Philanthropy Day. This award recognizes volunteer-led groups whose commitment, teamwork, and fundraising efforts create lasting impact throughout our community.

The photo featured here celebrates two previous recipients whose collective efforts have transformed lives across the Mahoning Valley.

For more than 50 years, the American Holiday Committee of the Butler Institute of American Art has organized the Annual Holiday Arts & Craft Show. This cherished community tradition supports free artistic and educational programming. Through the leadership of the late Cynthia Anderson and the dedication of countless committee members and volunteers, this event has grown into a beloved fundraiser that brings together artists, families, and supporters while strengthening access to the arts for all.

Man Up Mahoning Valley was founded by physicians, healthcare professionals, community members, and volunteers united by a common goal: saving lives through education, prevention, and early detection of prostate cancer. Since 2010, the group has helped provide screenings to approximately 2,000 men, including hundreds who were uninsured, underinsured, or had never been screened before. Their volunteer-driven efforts have increased awareness, improved access to care, and helped individuals receive potentially life-saving follow-up treatment.

These groups demonstrate the power of people coming together to raise funds, raise awareness, and create meaningful change. Their impact extends far beyond dollars raised; it can be seen in stronger organizations, healthier communities, and brighter futures.

Do you know a volunteer fundraising group that is making a difference in our community? Nominate them today and help us celebrate the teams whose passion, dedication, and service inspire us all.

https://community.afpglobal.org/afpohmahoningshenangochapter/npd/2021303827585276577/202130382783070157221

06/17/2026

Job Posting:

Butler Institute of American Art
Position: Development Operations & Grant Associate

Link for position details & application information: https://bit.ly/4iN5Hx1

06/15/2026

Carl Nunziato, an outstanding Valley philanthropist, passed away Wed, June 10th. Mr. Nunziato was the 2019 recipient of AFPMASH's Volunteer Philanthropist for his longstanding support of veterans, education, healthcare and the Mahoning Valley. Mr. Nunziato had a long history with St. Elizabeth Hospital and the Mercy Health Foundation, Second Harvest Food Bank, Mill Creek Metro Parks, and Easter Seals to name a few. He chaired the Committee that brought the Veterans Hospital to Belmont Avenue in Youngstown and in 2018 had the Veterans Resource Center named in his honor.

Mr. Nunziato was one of the great champions of the betterment of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley. He will be missed. Our condolences go out to his family and friends.

Carl Nunziato died on Wednesday, June 10, at The Inn at Poland Way nursing home with his family by his side.

06/15/2026

Some legacies continue to change lives long after a person is gone.

Nominations are now open for the Legacy Award at this year's National Philanthropy Day. This special recognition is presented posthumously to individuals whose generosity, service, and philanthropic vision continue to impact our community for generations.

The photo featured here honors two previous recipients whose legacies live on through their extraordinary giving.

Ruth Kyle dedicated her life to education, service, and caring for others. A beloved teacher and community volunteer, her generosity continued beyond her lifetime through charitable gifts that have supported healthcare, senior services, spiritual life programs, and countless individuals throughout our region. More than a decade after her passing, the impact of her kindness can still be felt every day.

David and Benita Penner devoted their lives to family, faith, and community. Through their generosity and foresight, they established a transformative legacy gift that continues to support educational opportunities and programs focused on breaking the cycle of poverty. Their commitment to creating a brighter future remains a powerful force for good, opening doors for children and families for generations to come.

The Legacy Award reminds us that philanthropy is more than what we give during our lifetime; it is the impact that endures long after we are gone. Nominate them for the Legacy Award and help us honor those whose stories continue to inspire our community.

https://community.afpglobal.org/afpohmahoningshenangochapter/npd/2021303827585276577/202130382783070157221

06/11/2026

Call for NPD Nominations!!
Nominations are being accepted for the AFPMASH 2026 National Philanthropy Day awards luncheon. For nomination form, guidance and instructions, please use link: https://bit.ly/4lx16BC

06/08/2026

Who inspires others to give? Who turns passion into action and leaves a lasting impact on our community?

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award at this year's National Philanthropy Day, and we're looking for individuals whose dedication to service has transformed lives through philanthropy.

The photo featured here showcases two remarkable past recipients. Aundréa Cika Heschmeyer has spent decades building stronger communities through volunteer leadership, cultural preservation, advocacy, and fundraising efforts that have sustained organizations serving families, individuals with autism, and countless community initiatives. Her commitment demonstrates how one volunteer can create ripple effects that last for generations.

Rev. Lewis W. Macklin II, known by many as a "Hope Dealer," has dedicated his life to uplifting others through faith, education, health initiatives, and community empowerment. From leading major fundraising campaigns to championing scholarships, wellness programs, and opportunities for children and families, his work reflects the profound difference a committed volunteer fundraiser can make.

These leaders remind us that philanthropy is about more than raising dollars, it's about raising hope, creating opportunities, and inspiring others to invest in the future of our communities.

Do you know an individual whose volunteer fundraising efforts have made a meaningful impact? Nominate them today and help us celebrate the people who make our community stronger through their generosity, leadership, and service.

https://community.afpglobal.org/afpohmahoningshenangochapter/npd/2021303827585276577/202130382783070157221

06/07/2026

AFPMASH Members in the news ....

Congratulations to AFPMASH members graduating with the 2026 Leadership Mahoning Valley program: Varada Bhide, Chief Operating Officer, YWCA Mahoning Valley; Courtney Campesi, Financial Resource Dev. Director, Youngstown Jewish Federation; and Luke Politsky, Director of Development, Youngstown Business Indicator.

JoAnn Stock, President, Leadership Mahoning Valley and AFPMASH Mentoring Chair received a $25,000 donation from Jim Kinnick, Executive Director of Eastgate Regional Council of Governments. The funds will be used to expand the services and programming of Leadership Mahoning Valley.

https://www.wfmj.com/news/local-news/warren/over-40-members-graduate-from-leadership-mahoning-valley/article_91f9509d-1bc3-4557-8771-7e5c470f1353.html

2026 Class Graduate bios:

https://leadershipmahoningvalley.org/signature-program/current-class/

Over 40 members graduated from the Leadership Mahoning Valley program on Wednesday, June 3.

06/01/2026

FREE One-Year Memberships Available!
The Association of Fundraising Professionals is offering scholarships for a new one-year membership. Now is your opportunity to gain access to the best resources to help you and your organization succeed.
Application link: https://bit.ly/3EKWsP3

06/01/2026

Do you know a young person who is making a difference through philanthropy?

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Youth Fundraiser Award at this year's National Philanthropy Day, and we want to celebrate the next generation of changemakers.

The photo featured here highlights two of our previous recipients who saw a need in their communities and took action. One group of young entrepreneurs organized a lemonade stand and turned simple cups of lemonade into meaningful support for local causes. Another remarkable young woman dedicated countless hours to creating a fundraiser that benefited Potential Development, helping support education and opportunities for individuals with autism.

These young leaders remind us that philanthropy isn't measured by age, it's measured by heart, compassion, and a willingness to make a difference.

If you know a youth who is raising funds, inspiring others, and creating positive change in our community, nominate them today. Their story deserves to be celebrated.

https://community.afpglobal.org/afpohmahoningshenangochapter/npd/2021303827585276577/202130382783070157221

05/29/2026

Congratulations to AFPMASH Member Olivia Cooke-Murphy, Marketing & Development manager for Flying HIGH, Inc. She was named one of the 25 under 35 young leaders in the Mahoning Valley.

“We are proud to celebrate all 25 honorees and the work they are doing to strengthen the Mahoning Valley.”