DCF Youth Council Continues Impact Through Community Service, Fundraising

The Youth Council is made up of high-school age youth (grades 9-12) from across the county.

DCF Youth Council shopping for Christmas presents for residents at the YES Home. Photo provided.

(Lawrenceburg, Ind.) - The Dearborn Community Foundation (DCF) Youth Council had a fantastic 12th year in 2024, continuing to make a difference in Dearborn County through both community service and fundraising/grant-making.

The Youth Council, which is made up of high-school age youth (grades 9-12) from across the county, was established by DCF to involve youth in a meaningful way in the philanthropic tradition, to encourage young people to give and serve in their community, and to make philanthropy a habit of the heart for future generations. Youth Council members learn to give of their time, talent and treasure to make a difference in the lives of others.

Youth Council community service/fundraising efforts also led to projects impacting Dearborn County residents. The Council raised funds through a bake sale at a Lawrenceburg High School football game to purchase items to assemble and gift 10 boxes for Operation Christmas Child at Zion Church, Lawrenceburg, to help kids in need around the world. The Council also purchased canned goods, wet wipes, and hygiene items for Community Blessing Boxes for folks in need.

Recently, the Youth Council adopted 12 of the residents at the James B. Wismann YES (Youth Encouragement Services) Home to help bring them a brighter Christmas. The YES Home, located in rural Dearborn County, is a residential group home for youth ages 13-18 that provides a structured, nurturing environment for abused, neglected, and abandoned children. The YES Home instills hope and empowerment in a safe environment, offering choice and respecting life experiences.

“I know the Youth Council members had a great time shopping for specific items for YES Home residents,” said DCF Scholarship & Grants Manager Denise Sedler, who leads the Council. “They really felt they were making a difference in someone’s life.”

The Youth Council made up of high school students across Dearborn County also annually completes a Pen-Pal/mentoring project with 8th-graders.

The Council is guided by the three ideals of giving and serving, leadership development, and community engagement. Involvement in the Council also gives youth a chance to learn more about charitable organizations in the community and how they can have an impact.

In its history, the Youth Council has completed hundreds of hours of community service and has raised thousands of dollars through fundraisers. Several years ago, Youth Council members established the DCF Youth Council Endowment Fund. The endowment fund has grown to a value of more than $45,000. The Youth Council members annually make grant recommendations from the fund to worthy causes in the community.

The DCF Youth Council always welcomes new members. To learn more about the Council and to join, contact Denise Sedler by calling 812-539-4115 or by email: dsedler@dearborncf.org.