Giving Testimonials

Mark and Cathy Hardwick

 Mark and Cathy Hardwick have seen the results of their contributions to the Youth Opportunity Center firsthand.

"You don't realize the scope of what the YOC does until you set foot on campus." Cathy Hardwick said. "It's very complex. They have so many specialized types of treatments, and they do such a wonderful job of catering to the different kids." 

Mark as Chief Financial Officer at First Merchants Corporation added that his faith and his family’s values along with his professional training lead his family to give to organizations that not only heal the human spirit but also grow the potential in people.  

"We've been on campus several times," Cathy said. "And we've been involved enough to be very confident with the leadership. It's a safe place. The staff is giving, caring and dedicated to their work."

“On top of providing nurturing, mentoring services, the YOC is an efficient organization with solid stewardship practices,” said Hardwick. “We’re confident that our giving is a good investment.”

 Don & Donna Conner

Don Conner first became involved in 1971 when he had contact with the former Delaware County Children’s Home. As an officer in a Yorktown organization, Don agreed to work with the Children’s Home to help provide support for the Ruby Hughes Memorial Fund. The Ruby Hughes Memorial Fund, originally established to meet the financial needs of children above what the county was obligated to pay, continues to exist today.

Don and his wife, Donna, remain involved in helping children as volunteers and donors at the Youth Opportunity Center. They are among YOC’s most generous donors and loyal supporters. Don has served on the YOC Board and the Advancement Committee, and the couple is often spotted at YOC events, such as the golf outing, helping alongside YOC staff.

“It only takes one child coming up to you and saying thank you,” Don shared. “Whatever we’ve done, we’ve been paid back almost immediately.

 Mary Jane Sursa, YOC Foundation Board Member and Donor

Mary Jane Sursa and her late husband, David Sursa, initially became interested in giving to the Youth Opportunity Center because of its excellent credentials.

"They have tremendous leadership, high standards and are accredited," Mary Jane Sursa said.

When the Sursas learned the YOC had a matching gift program, it sealed the deal. "Whenever you get matching funds, it's a good opportunity to give," she said.

Sursa has been giving to the YOC ever since, and recently joined its new Foundation Board, which works to raise funds for various YOC projects. Knowing that programming has an impact on the children’s  cultural and spiritual development,  Sursa and her fellow board members know that continuing the YOC’s commitment to excellence depends on private donations.

"Soaring never just happens, " said Sursa.  “You have to set high standards and then have the leadership and follow through to make it happen. The YOC has this formula for success.”