Staff Reports
The Mark and Wendy Elwood Foundation has pledged $100,000 in multi-year funding for the Council for Youth Development Bartholomew County to support local children, teens, and young adults.
The couple also donated $500,000 to the community’s opioid fight in 2017 via the Mark and Wendy Elwood Substance Abuse Prevention Fund, which the community matched with another $500,000 for a $1 million total for Project Prevent. The continuing effort supports substance abuse prevention education for youth and young adults.
This philosophy of generosity guided their decision to establish the Mark & Wendy Elwood Foundation at the Heritage Fund in 2020.
“Wendy and I have seen first-hand the positive impact local investment has on improving the lives of children and families and know this is the best path forward to help our community,” Mark Elwood said.
The Mark and Wendy Elwood Foundation’s funds will extend over a three-year period allowing for the Council for Youth Development’s expansion of youth empowerment programs.
Heather Carson, director of the Council for Youth Development, explained that the coalition recognized the need to offer more opportunities for adolescents and teens to get engaged outside of school. Successful pilot projects have included county-wide Youth Empowerment Summit, Shine On Postcard Campaign, and the Youth Ambassador program.
“Mark and Wendy’s generous contribution will allow the Council for Youth Development to empower more young people to discover their purpose, connect to their community, and reach their full potential.” Carson said.
“What we appreciate about CYD is their positive approach to prevention,” said Wendy Elwood. “They are a valued coalition in our community focused on helping young people build skills, make healthy choices, and live their best life.”
In addition to efforts focused on youth empowerment, the council provides resources and training for parents, caregivers, and professionals serving and supporting young people. The multi-year financial commitment by the Mark and Wendy Elwood Foundation ensures that the coalition can provide free learning opportunities to those interested in improving the well-being of all children, teens, and young adults in Bartholomew County.
Information: cydbartholomew.org
