Generation YP Retreat

F.I.S.T. Members Attend Dekko Foundation Retreat in Alabama  

Ten members of Steuben County’s youth philanthropy group, F.I.S.T. (Forever Improving Steuben County Together), along with their guides, traveled to Athens, Alabama, to participate in the Generation YP (Youth Pod) Retreat. This event, organized by the Dekko Foundation, brought together youth philanthropy groups from across the United States to network, learn, and grow as leaders. 

FIST seeks to inspire the youth of Steuben County to become leaders of tomorrow by sharing their resources and empowering others to donate their time, talent, and treasures

 The retreat provided F.I.S.T. members with an incredible opportunity to connect with other youth pods and gain valuable insights into leadership and philanthropy. Hosted by the T.R.A.I.L. (Together Renewing and Improving Limestone) youth pod, the event featured inspirational speakers, engaging workshops, and activities designed to strengthen teamwork and leadership skills. Sessions covered essential topics such as marketing, finance, grant writing, and effective teamwork. 

The retreat also included interactive activities such as scavenger hunts, painting, and team-building exercises, creating a balanced mix of learning and connection. These experiences not only fostered lasting friendships but also reinforced the importance of collaboration, risk-taking, and creativity in philanthropy. 

FIST following their group activity

Leah Probst, a F.I.S.T. member, reflected on the impact of one speaker: 
“Tori Hope Petersen was incredibly inspiring. She used her background to motivate us to work hard and achieve our dreams. Her faith and message left a lasting impression on everyone.” 

Emma Blotter shared her perspective: 
“The city night activities were an amazing way to get out and make memories. There were so many different people to talk to and make lifelong friendships with. Overall, I think it really bonded us all together and taught us how to work with people we do not necessarily know.” 

FIST on the bus ride to Athens, Alabama

Returning from the retreat, F.I.S.T. members are brimming with new ideas to enhance their annual programs and develop new initiatives to serve Steuben County. Programs like FLIP (Future Leaders in Philanthropy), which introduces 5th graders to giving through a $750 donation to a nonprofit of their choice, remain central to their mission. 

F.I.S.T. extends heartfelt gratitude to the Dekko Foundation for organizing this enriching retreat and to the MSD of Steuben County, Fremont Community Schools, and Hamilton Community Schools for supporting student and staff participation. This collaborative support ensures that young philanthropists have the resources and opportunities to grow as leaders and make a meaningful impact in their communities. 

FIST is a youth philanthropy organization founded by the Dekko Foundation under the direction of the Steuben County Community Foundation. Students from Hamilton, Angola, and Fremont become members as 8th graders and remain through high school. Each school has an adult representative. The focus of the group is to promote philanthropy among young people. FIST meets once a month to plan ways to empower the youth of Steuben County and assist in service projects. Collectively they donate more than 1000 hours a year of their time to improve their communities. In addition to volunteering their time and talents through service projects in the community, FIST offers grants to community nonprofits and school projects that promote youth involvement in philanthropy.

The Steuben County Community Foundation, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to empowering individuals and businesses to support the causes they are passionate about through our philanthropic services, strategic investments, and community leadership. With $55 million in assets, our mission is to bridge the gap between those who care and the needs of our community. We strive to enhance the quality of life by evaluating, supporting, and coordinating philanthropic giving and endowment building. Our vision is to lead the community in these efforts. To learn more about our work, please visit our website at www.steubenfoundation.org.

Gabby Concus, Personal Relations
FIST (Forever Improving Steuben County Together)
gconcus@fremonteagles.us