Local Youth Mentoring Organization Receives Funds From Governor

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Youth mentorship is a need that has not been overlooked by the state leadership in Columbus.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Appalachian Ohio President and CEO Katie Lupsor announced the awarding of a grant from the governor’s office that will help to expand the work that is already being done by her organization. 

“We were awarded $110,000 and that $110,000 will be in year-one and then we’ll get another $110,000 in year-two and what that money will do is support our Lunch Buddies programs. And so we’re really excited because we’re doing some work in Muskingum County that isn’t technically covered by grant funds and so the Governor’s Office of Faith Based Initiatives funding will go to cover work in Duncan Falls, in Maysville, at National Road Elementary and as well as help us expand into Guernsey County,” Lupsor said.

Executive Order 2025-07D directs Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or (TANF) funding to initiatives that will assist struggling families by supporting children, and encouraging workforce development.

“The Governor’s Office really wants us to do with this grant, character development. So in year-one, this grant will cover character development for our staff and those affiliated with our agency. And then in year-two, we will train our volunteers and of course our school partners in the character development curriculum as well. I think this grant funding from the Governor’s Office is a great opportunity to continue to do what we do best. And that’s serve more kids in Appalachian Ohio,” Lupsor said.

The grant will provide for the 2026-27 school year and stipulates the required training the staff and volunteers must receive in order to meet the grant’s eligibility requirements.