Youngstown Foundation Awards $986K in Grants

Pictured above: Stambaugh Auditorium Chief Business Officer Dani Dier and Chief Executive and Operating Officer Matt Pagac are leading the roof replacement project, supported by a Youngstown Foundation grant.

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (August 20, 2026) – The Youngstown Foundation today announced $986,000 in new grants, including a grant to Stambaugh Auditorium to support its critical roof replacement project.

The historic venue, built in 1926, has experienced storm damage and ongoing wear and tear, creating an urgent need for a new roof to prevent potential damage to the building’s interior.

“Stambaugh Auditorium is a monumental pillar in our community, and requires preservation so it can continue to flourish for years to come,” said Lynnette Forde, president of the Youngstown Foundation.

The project began in June of this year, and the first major phase is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

“The Youngstown Foundation has long been a champion of projects that strengthen our community and its extraordinary investment in our roof replacement project is another investment in the future of the Mahoning Valley,” said Dani Dier, Stambaugh Auditorium chief business officer.

“As we prepare to celebrate our centennial, this support allows us to preserve one of our community’s most treasured landmarks, ensuring it continues to serve the tens of thousands who experience arts, education and community events through Stambaugh Auditorium each year,” Dier added. “We are deeply grateful for the foundation’s partnership in helping us protect this legacy.”

Grant Support for ADA-Friendly Walking and Sensory Trail
A Youngstown Foundation grant will support Logan’s Landing in its work to provide a barrier-free walking trail in Bazetta Township Park, designed for people of all ages and abilities.

The nonprofit’s mission is to create more inclusive spaces for children with autism and sensory needs, including parks and other public spaces. Its work includes providing education and resources, as well as incorporating designs and equipment that better serve neurodivergent individuals and families.

“The trail will complement the new inclusive playground, creating a place where families can play, explore and connect together without barriers,” said Carrie Biery, founder of Logan’s Landing Project. “Nestled beside the lake and the Storybook Trail, this space will offer schools, individuals with disabilities, and families an accessible place to learn, play, and make lasting memories.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Youngstown Foundation for helping turn this vision into reality and for joining us in making travel and play accessible for all,” she added.

Additional Youngstown Foundation Grants

Thirteen additional local organizations received Youngstown Foundation grant awards:

• Boston Avenue Neighbor Association (Happy Place Sanctuary)
• Clothed in Strength (Operating & Programming Support)
• Coleman Health Services (Operating Support)
• Economic Action Group (Operating Support)
• Finer Things Academy (Career Edge Series)
• Girl Scouts of North East Ohio (Leadership Experience for Girls)
• Hope Recovery Housing, Inc. (Expansion and Stability Workshops)
• Millcreek Children’s Center (Operating Support)
• The EMBER Project (Stability for Single Mothers)
• Trumbull County Historical Society (Museum of Science Fiction and Fantasy Arts Construction)
• Veterans Outreach (Updates to Colonial Complex)
• YMCA of Youngstown (Youth Program Operations)
• Youngstown City School District (One Vision One Youngstown projects)

About the Youngstown Foundation
Founded in 1918, the Youngstown Foundation is committed to supporting local donors, nonprofit agencies, professional advisors and community leaders who help shape its mission and future. For more information, visit  www.youngstownfoundation.org.