Do you know a young person who is making a difference?
Nominate them today to honor their dedication and to inspire more positive change in our community!
Marietta Community Foundation’s 25 Under 25 program honors young individuals who are making a positive impact in Washington County, OH, through their volunteer work, fundraising efforts, advocacy, or service projects.
We aim to celebrate these young people for their contributions, whether big or small, and to inspire others in the community.
The nomination process is open to everyone, including self-nominations.
Eligibility
Age
Nominees must be 25 years old or younger as of January 1, 2024.
Residency
Nominees must reside in Washington County, OH or have a significant connection to it (e.g., attending school, working, or volunteering in the area).
Previous Recognition
Nominees must not have been previously recognized on Marietta Community Foundation’s 25 Under 25 list.
Selection Criteria
The selection process evaluates nominees based on the following characteristics, though meeting all criteria is not required for consideration. These traits highlight the diverse ways in which young individuals contribute to their communities and guide our assessment of their philanthropic impact:
Fundraising
Successfully raises funds for charitable causes.
Volunteer Work
Consistent and meaningful volunteerism.
Project Initiation
Starts or plays a key role in community projects or programs.
Advocacy
Raises awareness about important social issues and advocates for positive change.
Examples of Youth Making a Difference
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Ava Goode
AGE 22
Ava created a public awareness campaign about the importance of mental health, including organizing workshops and distributing information at her university. She also mentors younger kids through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.
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Aiden True
AGE 17
Aiden organized a charity soccer tournament that raised $800 for a local homeless shelter. In his free time, he volunteers as a coach for the league, helping young athletes and promoting teamwork.
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Sophia Hope
AGE 11
Sophia assists at her church’s weekly community meal, serving food and helping with event setup. She also started a “Kindness Club” at her school, promoting random acts of kindness and community service.
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Ethan Bright
AGE 15
Ethan started a community garden at his school, providing fresh vegetables for the school cafeteria. He also volunteers to maintain the garden, teaching fellow students about sustainable farming.
Nomination Process
Nomination Form
Nominations will be accepted from June 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024. During this period, anyone—including the nominee and their relatives—can complete the nomination form. The form will collect detailed information about the nominee’s philanthropic activities and specific examples demonstrating how they meet the criteria.
Selection Committee
A diverse selection committee comprising community leaders and Foundation representatives will review nominations and select the honorees.
