The Berks County Community Foundation strives to enhance the quality of life for residents of Berks County, Pennsylvania, by fostering community improvement projects, supporting local non-profits, and encouraging philanthropy.
The Youth Advisory Board (YAB) - Youth and Philanthropy Fund is a program that mobilizes high school students from various districts across Berks County to play a pivotal role in their community's development. Through their involvement, students on the YAB gain leadership experience by designing and leading service projects with the Youth Volunteer Corps of Reading. A notable aspect of this initiative is the management of a youth philanthropy fund, through which these students have the opportunity to allocate up to $15,000 annually to local organizations focusing on issues relevant to youth. This program not only encourages youth participation in philanthropy but also ensures that their perspectives are represented in the creation and execution of service projects.