The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley traces its origins to a pivotal moment in 2005, during the inaugural Game of Hope Basketball Event. This event was more than just a game—it was a gathering of community leaders from business, civil service, and local government, and the local Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity all united by a single purpose: to raise funds for children battling chronic and terminal illnesses.
The success and impact of this event left a lasting impression on our Founder, Anthony Spano. Inspired by the outpouring of community support, Anthony envisioned something greater—an enduring legacy that would continue to provide hope and assistance to children in need.
Motivated by the success of the Game of Hope and the clear need for ongoing support, Anthony Spano, along with a dedicated committee and team, embarked on a mission to create a more permanent and impactful organization. After two years of careful planning and organizing, The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley was officially founded in 2007. From its inception, the Foundation has been driven by a singular goal: to improve the lives of children facing chronic and terminal illnesses by providing financial assistance, organizing community events, and offering support where it is most needed.
One of the hallmarks of The Hope Foundation is its commitment to being 100% volunteer-driven. We are proud to operate with no administrative costs or salaries, ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to supporting the children and families we serve. This commitment is reflected in the tireless work of our volunteers, who dedicate their time and energy to organizing events, raising funds, and providing hands-on assistance.
Since its founding, The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley has significantly expanded upon the foundation laid by the original Game of Hope. Over the years, we have:
Our success is a testament to the power of community and the dedication of our Board of Directors, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the success of our events and the efficient use of our resources.
Today, The Hope Foundation is guided by an experienced and passionate Board of Trustees. The Board plays a crucial role in shaping the direction of the organization, ensuring that every decision aligns with our mission to support chronically and terminally ill children. Their responsibilities include establishing organizational policies, making decisions on grant distributions, and overseeing donations to ensure they are used effectively and ethically.
In addition to the Board of Trustees, we have several committees dedicated to reviewing and considering the numerous requests for assistance that we receive. These committees work diligently to ensure that funds are allocated to those who are most in need and that every grant aligns with the Foundation’s goals and values.
At the heart of The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley is a simple yet powerful philosophy: everything we do is for the kids. Whether through grants, donations, or volunteer events, our efforts are all focused on making a tangible difference in the lives of children facing unimaginable challenges. We believe that every child deserves the chance to experience joy, hope, and the best possible quality of life, and we are committed to making that a reality. #ItsALLfortheKIDS
The journey of The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley is far from over. With the continued support of our community, volunteers, and donors, we are determined to expand our impact and reach even more children in need. We invite you to join us in this mission—whether by donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about our cause. Together, we can continue to inspire hope and change lives.
PO Box 733 Youngstown, OH 44501
Email: info@hopemv.org
Phone: (330) 406-1048
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