Developing the Philanthropy Leaders of Tomorrow

Young people from across Fairfield County are learning about careers and making a difference through our new Youth Philanthropy Council.

Gen Z holds the key to creating a more just, equitable, and compassionate community. While its youngest members are still teenagers, this emerging generation is already showing a desire to make a difference. Fairfield County’s Community Foundation’s new Youth Philanthropy Council – a two-year, county-wide effort launched in March – aims to help socially conscious young people start making an impact now. The program brings together a diverse class of ten participants, ages 16 to 24, to learn about the philanthropic sector with two experienced mentors.

They will be immersed in all aspects of professional philanthropy, following a curriculum that covers the financial and organizational aspects of running a nonprofit.

Council members will also visit local nonprofits, volunteer, and explore key issues affecting our community.

Getting Real with Grantmaking
In the second year of the program, members will also create their own grant process, reviewing applications and awarding grants to Fairfield County nonprofits.

“I’m excited to make an impact, to become more educated on philanthropy and work with fellow council members using the grant process to actually help people,” said 16-year-old Julia Bassetto, a senior at Fairfield Warde High School.

The Council is led by Community Foundation program associates Sarah Omotunde and Alli Ganim, both early-career professionals, who say the program has already revealed benefits beyond career development. Members are building new relationships, discussing solutions for issues they care about, and gaining deeper awareness of how philanthropy affects their lives in unseen and unexpected ways.

Shared Learning and Connection
“As this program evolves, we’re excited to see the impact young people are able to make – and where they invest their dollars as they grant into their communities,” said Omotunde.

“I love how they bring so much curiosity to the sessions,” added Ganim. “I’m always learning from them as well, and that’s something we hear from the mentors all the time.” Council member Elie Mulumba, age 18, a rising senior at Great Oaks Charter School in Bridgeport, said she appreciates the opportunity to connect with likeminded people who share similar goals.

“The Council reassures me that there are people who are trying to fix the issues that not only plague the world, but plague our communities as a whole,” said Mulumba.

With these young people preparing for future leadership, Fairfield County, it appears, is in good hands.

Help support youth education and career development: FCCFoundation.org/Youth