Kenora’s next generation of community leaders took centre stage Wednesday as the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation hosted its 18th Annual Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) Granting Celebration at St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
The event showcased the dedication and thoughtfulness of local students who have spent months learning about philanthropy and community needs. Students from Beaver Brae Secondary School and St. Thomas Aquinas High School came together to award a total of $4,000 in grants to eight local registered charities, supporting important work happening right here in Kenora and the Lake of the Woods region.
The Youth in Philanthropy program is designed to engage students in meaningful, hands-on learning about charitable giving. Throughout the program, participants researched local organizations, conducted site visits, and gained firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities facing community groups. This process allowed students to make well-informed decisions about where funding would have the greatest impact.
Today’s celebration was not only about awarding grants, but also about recognizing the effort behind them. Students were joined by municipal leaders, representatives from Northern Credit Union, local media, Community Foundation board members and staff, as well as family and friends, all gathered to celebrate the achievements of these young philanthropists.
“This is a meaningful success story—youth gaining a deeper understanding of the impact philanthropy can have close to home,” said Lynn McAughey, Executive Director of the Community Foundation. “These students have made thoughtful decisions about how charitable giving can strengthen our community.”
The program continues to grow thanks to the commitment of students and the support of partners like Northern Credit Union, whose ongoing contributions help make the initiative possible year after year.
Beyond the dollars granted, today’s event highlighted something even more valuable: the development of a new generation of engaged, informed citizens. By participating in YIP, students are building skills in leadership, critical thinking, and community awareness—foundations that will continue to shape their involvement for years to come.
For those looking to support the future of local philanthropy, the Community Foundation encourages residents to learn more about the Youth in Philanthropy program and its endowment fund.
As today’s celebration made clear, Kenora’s youth are not just learning about making a difference—they are already doing it.
