Leadership Mahoning Valley is an immersive, hands-on leadership development experience designed to connect, educate, and inspire emerging and established leaders across the region. Through a series of curated program days featuring speakers, behind-the-scenes tours, interactive site visits, and group activities, participants gain a deep understanding of the institutions, businesses, services, and systems that shape our community.
Each program day focuses on a key pillar of our region’s success, from History & Heritage, Government & Justice, and Health & Human Services, to Economic Development, Education, Diversity & Inclusion, and Quality of Life. In addition, participants complete a DiSC© assessment, equipping them with tools to better understand themselves and others, and to strengthen essential leadership skills such as self-awareness, communication, collaboration, and team effectiveness.
BUILDING THE FUTURE OF THE MAHONING VALLEY
As the Mahoning Valley experiences new momentum in economic development and business growth, strong community leadership is more critical than ever. Our region’s ability to attract and retain talent — especially among young professionals — hinges on a network of engaged, knowledgeable, and empowered leaders who are committed to making a difference. Leadership Mahoning Valley develops this leadership pipeline. Graduates go on to serve on nonprofit boards, lead civic initiatives, and drive innovation within their organizations and communities.
WHY WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT
Tuition covers only a portion of the true cost of delivering this high-impact experience. To sustain and grow Leadership Mahoning Valley, we rely on generous support from corporate sponsors, individual donors, and foundation partners.
Your investment makes it possible to:
- Keep tuition accessible for all participants
- Expand programming and experiential learning opportunities
- Build a stronger, more connected Mahoning Valley
CORPORATE SPONSORSHIPS
By sponsoring Leadership Mahoning Valley, your company will be recognized as a champion of leadership, civic engagement, and regional growth. Sponsors receive prominent visibility throughout the program year, demonstrating your commitment to strengthening our community and investing in its future leaders.
As a valued partner, your organization will benefit from:
- Brand exposure in program materials, newsletters, social media, and the Leadership Mahoning Valley website
- Logo placement at program events and special initiatives
- Public recognition during class days, alumni events, and community-facing engagements
- Opportunities to connect directly with program participants, alumni, and fellow community leaders
- A positive reputation as a company that gives back and helps shape the future of the Mahoning Valley
Sponsorship is not only a contribution — it’s a strategic investment in the vibrancy and sustainability of our region.
Join Us
A full list of sponsorship opportunities is included. We invite you to partner with us in shaping the next generation of community leaders. Your support is not just appreciated. It’s essential.
Review 2026-27 Sponsorship Packages
Download a Sponsorship Commitment Form
For more than 40 years, Leadership Mahoning Valley has equipped emerging and established leaders with the knowledge, skills, and connections they need to create lasting change in our community.
But what truly sets Leadership Mahoning Valley apart is what happens after the program ends.
Our alumni — now more than 1,300 strong — are serving on nonprofit boards, leading community organizations, launching local initiatives, and running for public office. They are making critical decisions, building bridges, and tackling the real challenges facing our Valley. Their leadership is shaping the future of our region — and it all started with a single year in this transformative program.
As someone who believes in the power of leadership and civic engagement, you understand that this kind of change doesn’t happen by accident. It requires investment — from people like you who care deeply about the Mahoning Valley and want to see it thrive.
This is why we need your support.
Your gift to Leadership Mahoning Valley helps us:
- Keep the program accessible to a diverse group of participants
- Deliver immersive, high-impact learning experiences
- Expand our reach and strengthen our alumni network
- Continue cultivating the leaders our region needs — now and for the future
Tuition covers only a portion of the true cost of delivering this high-impact experience. To sustain and grow Leadership Mahoning Valley, we rely on generous support from corporate sponsors, foundation partners and individuals like you.
Your investment makes it possible to:
- Keep tuition accessible for all participants
- Expand programming and experiential learning opportunities
- Build a stronger, more connected Mahoning Valley
Every contribution makes a difference. Whether you’re a graduate of the program, a longtime supporter, or someone inspired by the positive change happening in our community, your donation is an investment in people who are committed to making the Mahoning Valley stronger, more vibrant, and more connected.
Please join us in continuing this powerful legacy of leadership.
Please support our annual appeal. You can donate by downloading the pledge form and sending it with your donation to Leadership Mahoning Valley, P.O. Box 66, Youngstown, OH 44501 or you can donate online here:
Thank you for your support!
Volunteers are welcome to help with the exciting new programming, events and activities we have planned. Specific areas that can use a hand include:
- Program Planning for the Class of 2026
- Lessons in Leadership Speaker Series Committee
- Leadership Mahoning Valley Women’s Leadership Network Committee
- Leadership Mahoning Valley “Nine and Dine” Golf Outing Committee
- Alumni Social Committee
- Youth Leadership Mahoning Valley Committee
- And more!
If you would like to help with any of these activities, please contact JoAnn at JoAnn@leadershipmahoningvalley.org.
OUR SPONSORS
Many thanks to these donors whose support helps to sustain and grow the program.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
The Youngstown Foundation
VISIONARY LEADERS
Bon Secours Mercy Health
Mercy Health Foundation Mahoning Valley
Youngstown State University
The Business Journal
American Business Center
Pollock Company Foundation
Pollock Personal Foundation
COMMUNITY CONNECTOR
Berk Enterprises
Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley
COMMUNITY CONNECTOR
Akron Children’s Hospital
Farmers Bank Foundation
Thomases Family Endowment of the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation
Walter and Helen Bender Foundation
Zita and Joseph DiYorio Foundation
Zoldan-Yampolsky Family Executive Fellowship Grant
Special Thanks to Our Visionary Leader Sponsors





