Relle Retires from Youth Foundation

After six years of leadership, Ferenc M. Relle, Jr. has stepped down as the Advisor of the Wayne County Community Youth Foundation (WCCYF). The program gives local young people a voice in providing financial and human resources to projects and programs benefiting youth in Wayne County.

Members meet monthly during the academic year. They work on teambuilding and leadership activities, learn about charitable giving from local philanthropists, and visit nonprofit organizations serving Wayne County. In addition to financial support, members of the Youth Foundation also participate in several community service projects.

A component fund of Wayne County Community Foundation, Relle was instrumental in getting the program established, securing the initial seed money from local philanthropist and creating a curriculum that provides educational and practical experiences in philanthropy for area high school students.

Steve Matthew, Chairman of the WCCF Board, expressed the gratitude of the Trustees: “We have been immensely fortunate to have Ferenc’s leadership of the Youth Foundation. His enthusiasm, dedication, and knowledge of philanthropy have made a lasting difference in the lives of WCCYF members.”

Under Relle’s advisement, over 200 Wayne County high school students gained valuable leadership experience, while learning more about local charitable giving and how investments grow charitable funds. They met with local philanthropists and also evaluated grant requests from organizations serving Wayne County youth, awarding over $33,000 to local non-profit organizations.

Deanna Troutman, a local business owner and a Trustee of the Foundation, will lead the group next year. As a long-time participant and advisor of 4-H, she brings a wealth of knowledge in youth development.

Since 1978, the Wayne County Community Foundation has been working to strengthen the community we all share. It is a nonprofit charitable community organization. Since inception, WCCF has awarded over $75 million in grants and scholarships. For more information about the Foundation call 330.262.3877 or visit www.WayneCountyCommunityFoundation.org.