Impact Stories
Every child we serve has a story worth sharing. With the support of our donors, volunteers, and community partners, the Hope Foundation has helped thousands of families across the Mahoning Valley navigate the unimaginable — one grant, one wish, and one act of generosity at a time. These are just some of their stories.


Thank You, Mahoning Valley — What a Year It Has Been
A heartfelt thank-you to the Mahoning Valley for a year of generosity — in 2025, the Hope Foundation supported nearly 53 local children and families.

25 Teddy Bears Donated to Children at Akron Children’s Hospital
On December 7, children at Akron Children’s Hospital of Mahoning Valley received 25 teddy bears and books, donated through the Hope Foundation.

21 Teddy Bears for Children at Akron Children’s Hospital
On December 9, children at Akron Children’s Hospital of Mahoning Valley received 21 soft teddy bears donated by the Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.

Hope Foundation makes Build-a-Bears for Hospitalized Kids
Hope Foundation volunteers built teddy bears at Build-A-Bear Workshop, continuing a partnership with Akron Children’s Hospital to comfort young patients.

Groups come together to Purchase a Special Wheelchair during this Holiday Season
The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley and Operation Search and Help, funded through the Youngstown Foundation, partnered to purchase a special wheelchair.

Making a Difference in Children’s Lives — The Foundation Makes Donation to Help the Leonard Kirtz School
The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley donated $3,000 toward new playground equipment for the Leonard Kirtz School’s $250,000 funding campaign.

Making Memories and Living Life as a Kid at Camp
Ryleigh, a teen battling pulmonary illness, made unforgettable memories at camp through the Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley’s support.

Saddling up with Confidence and Trust
A young boy who grew up in foster care was one of 10 children to receive a scholarship for a six-week equestrian therapy program through the Hope Foundation.

The Gift of a Helping Hand
Meet Michael McDuff, 19 months old, who battles a rare genetic disease with the support of the Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.

Young Child’s Determination to Beat Cancer
Landen Green, 7, is living life fully despite acute lymphoblastic leukemia, with support from the Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.

The Power of Community: How a Young Girl Battling Leukemia Got to See Her Wish Come to Life
Nya Decker, a young girl battling leukemia, saw her wish come to life through the power of community and the Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.

Alleviating the Financial Burden that Comes with Cancer
The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley helps ease the financial burden cancer places on Mahoning Valley children and their families.
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Every Story Starts With a Gift Like Yours
Behind every story on this page is a donor who decided to show up for a child in the Mahoning Valley. Your gift — no matter the size — becomes part of a story like these.