Each year, the Otsego Community Foundation proudly recognizes the graduating seniors who have dedicated their time, talents, and leadership to the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). These students have played a vital role in strengthening our community, and we are deeply grateful for their service.
The Youth Advisory Committee is a group of student representatives from Otsego County high schools who work alongside adult advisors and Foundation staff to make a meaningful impact in our community. Guided by the mission “to provide youth with a voice to empower the community through positive impact and growth, one grant at a time,” YAC members serve as both leaders and changemakers.
Since its founding in 1994—through a $1 million challenge grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation—YAC has empowered young people to step into philanthropy with purpose. Through the Youth Fund, these students have helped direct more than $50,000 to projects impacting youth across our community. Their work goes far beyond grantmaking; they assess local youth needs, promote positive youth development, and serve as role models for their peers.
Throughout their time on YAC, members have:
- Participated in trainings and leadership development opportunities
- Engaged in volunteerism and community outreach
- Conducted youth and teacher needs surveys
- Reviewed grant proposals and visited funded nonprofit organizations
- Recommended funding decisions to the Board of Directors
Their thoughtful work ensures that youth voices are heard and that resources are directed where they are needed most.
As we honor this year’s graduating seniors, we celebrate not only what they have accomplished during their time on YAC, but also the bright futures ahead of them. They leave a lasting legacy of compassion, leadership, and service—one that will continue to inspire future members.
Meet Our Graduating Seniors
Ava Conn
What are your plans for next year?
I am attending University of Michigan and majoring in elementary education.
What aspect of being a part of YAC had the greatest impact on you?
Being part of YAC has had a great impact on me because it helped me grow as a leader and become more confident in speaking up and working with others. I liked making a difference in my community and helping my fellow Otsego County students. I truly appreciate this opportunity and am very thankful for everything YAC has taught me and the experiences it has given me.
Emery Blust
What are your plans for next year?
My plan for next year is to attend Central Michigan University to pursue Interior Design.
What aspect of being a part of YAC had the greatest impact on you?
The aspect of being a part of YAC that has had the greatest impact on me was being able to see our work in action and seeing first-hand how the changes we were making were helping teens in the community.
Caroline Mertz
What are your plans for next year?
I am attending Loyola University Chicago in the fall studying business.
What aspect of being a part of YAC had the greatest impact on you?
The greatest impact that YAC had on me was seeing our decisions impact the community. It was really special to see people using things that we funded and how those things have improved our community!
Jaron Bensigner
What are your plans for next year?
I am going to Alma College in the fall and will be playing football
What aspect of being a part of YAC had the greatest impact on you?
YAC encouraged me to think bigger than myself and my school. It was an opportunity to consider making things better for all youth in our community.
Get Involved with YAC
Are you—or a student you know—interested in making a difference in Otsego County?
The Youth Advisory Committee meets approximately every other month, with virtual trainings and in-person activities designed to build leadership skills and community awareness. YAC is open to motivated high school students who are passionate about giving back and creating positive change.
Members gain valuable experience in leadership, philanthropy, and community engagement while connecting with peers from across the county.
To learn more about YAC or to join, please contact DeLayni Brown at delayni@otsegofoundation.org.
Interested in joining the Youth Advisory Committee? Apply by July 1, 2026, by clicking the button below.
