Muncie, IN - A true love of young people inspired Youth Opportunity Center board member Phyllis Shafer and the late Hamer Shafer to create a philanthropic matching gift to benefit children of the YOC. The Hamer D. and Phyllis C. Shafer Foundation recently awarded the YOC with $100,000, the 2nd installment of a 3-year matching gift program. Upon completion, the Shafer Foundation will have awarded the YOC Foundation with $300,000 in matching dollars, along with the additional matching funds raised through the campaign.

"The Shafer Foundation is making a tremendous impact in our community," said Rick Roway, CEO of the YOC. "Due to the amazing generosity of this dedicated couple, children we serve will have the opportunity to redirect their paths, and have the tools to lead a more productive life."

The Youth Opportunity Center Foundation began the 3rd year of the dollar for dollar matching program on July 1st.

According to Polly Craig Executive Director of the YOC Foundation, the additional funding will allow the YOC to expand its programs. "The money raised through this charitable offering will go directly to the treatment of the kids, providing much-needed services and exposing youth to additional educational, cultural, recreational, and wellness initiatives."