For decades, philanthropy has largely been a top-down endeavor, where funders determine priorities, design programs, and allocate resources based on their perceptions of need. But what if the very people impacted by these decisions had real power to shape funding priorities and drive change?

At Snow-Redfern Foundation, we are actively reshaping our approach to philanthropy, moving away from traditional practices and toward participatory grantmaking (PGM)—a model that centers community wisdom, lived experience, and power-sharing.

A significant milestone in this journey was the participation of our Executive Director, Sara Wilcox, in the Start Well Program, a six-month international learning experience facilitated by the PGM Community of Practice. Alongside 17 other participants from around the world, Sara engaged in deep learning workshops, peer exchanges, and personalized coaching to strengthen my understanding of participatory practices.

Key Learnings & Takeaways

One of the most profound themes throughout the program was the necessity of genuine power-sharing in philanthropy. Many funders invite community participation, but true participatory grantmaking goes beyond consultation—it shifts decision-making power to the very people impacted by funding decisions.

Here are some of the key insights Sara gained:

🔹 Shifting Mindsets: Philanthropy must center trust, lived experience, and community leadership rather than relying solely on traditional expertise.
🔹 Redefining the Role of Funders: Instead of gatekeepers, funders should serve as facilitators of change, removing barriers rather than imposing rigid structures.
🔹 Navigating Institutional Resistance: Implementing PGM requires internal advocacy to make the case for shifting power and adopting community-led evaluation methods.
🔹 Building Long-Term Partnerships: True impact comes from relationships built on reciprocity and mutual respect, not just transactional grantmaking.

What This Means for Snow-Redfern Foundation

As we continue this transformation, we are committed to:

✅ Expanding Youth Voice, ensuring young people have meaningful governance roles in our organization.
✅ Developing youth-led grantmaking models that give young leaders the power to make funding decisions.
✅ Embedding participatory principles into our internal operations and funding strategies, ensuring community members and young people have a voice at every level.

The Path Forward

The Start Well Program reinforced what we already knew: philanthropy must evolve beyond performative inclusion and commit to authentic power-sharing. As the program continues to grow, it will expand the network of funders and advocates dedicated to this work, helping to create a more just and equitable philanthropic landscape.

At Snow-Redfern Foundation, we are ready to lead this charge. Will you join us?

At the Snow-Redfern Foundation, we believe that youth voices are not just important—they are essential. The wisdom, energy, and leadership potential within young people drive change, and it’s our responsibility to provide spaces where their voices are heard, valued, and empowered.

For years, our Root2Rise program has empowered young women to rise into leadership. Now, we are expanding our commitment to youth-led leadership development with a brand-new experience tailored specifically for young men.

That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Young Men Rising (YMR), our latest youth leadership workshop series. This program is designed for young men, by young men, fostering self-awareness, emotional resilience, and leadership through a structured yet dynamic learning experience.

What Makes Young Men Rising Unique?

YMR is more than just a leadership workshop—it’s a transformational journey. Over six weeks, participants will engage in deep discussions, hands-on leadership exercises, and guided mentorship. Each session follows a structured approach, led by young men themselves, ensuring that leadership is not just taught but actively practiced.

The Core of Young Men Rising

🔹 Owning Your Leadership – Understanding personal strengths & goal setting
🔹 Honoring & Evaluating Followership – Culture, identity, and diversity
🔹 Knowing & Growing – Emotional intelligence and personal innovation
🔹 Connecting & Protecting – Systems thinking and collective creativity
🔹 Giving & Receiving – Feedback as a leadership tool
🔹 Investing & Empowering – Managing difficult conversations and adaptive leadership

Each session integrates the Six Pillars of Emotional Resilience, focusing on sleep, nutrition, physical activity, relational connection, mastery, and quieting—helping young men develop habits that support both personal and professional growth.

Why Youth Voice Matters

This program is not about adults telling young men how to lead. Instead, it’s about creating a collaborative space where their voices guide the learning process. Every participant has the opportunity to facilitate, mentor, and coach their peers, making Young Men Rising a leadership laboratory, not just a workshop.

Join the Movement

If you or someone you know is ready to step into their leadership journey, applications for Young Men Rising are now open. This is more than a program—it’s a call to action for young men to rise into their potential, shape their communities, and lead with confidence.

📅 First Session: October 2025
📍 Virtual 

Apply today at snowredfern.org 

Let’s amplify youth voice and build a future where young leaders thrive, inspire, and create lasting impact.

Arvilla Snow-Redfern dedicated her life to creating opportunities for young people, driven by a deep sense of purpose shaped by personal loss and resilience. Her vision gave rise to the Snow-Redfern Foundation, first established to provide a home for boys in need, and which has since evolved into a force for empowering youth in dynamic and meaningful ways.

It is in this spirit that we created Root2Rise and Young Men Rising, two leadership workshop series designed to honor Arvilla’s enduring commitment to young people. These programs serve as a modern extension of her legacy—cultivating resilience, leadership, and purpose in today’s youth, just as she sought to do nearly a century ago.

Arvilla’s journey was one of transformation. Following the tragic loss of her son, Monte, she sought ways to channel her grief into action, ultimately leading to the creation of a foundation that would support young people for generations to come. She believed in the power of nurturing young minds and providing them with the skills, guidance, and opportunities necessary to thrive.

Root2Rise embraces this belief by fostering leadership among young women, helping them discover their inner strength a

nd forge their own paths in life. Similarly, Young Men Rising is a tribute to Arvilla’s original work with young men, ensuring they too have the support and mentorship needed to become confident leaders.

As we continue to build on her legacy, we invite young people to take part in these programs, carrying forward the spirit of resilience and empowerment that Arvilla embodied. Her story reminds us that when we invest in youth, we invest in a future shaped by strong, compassionate, and capable leaders.

Join us as we honor the past while shaping the future—one young leader at a time.

At the Snow-Redfern Foundation, we are fortunate to have dedicated board members who share our passion for empowering youth and strengthening rural Nebraska. One such leader is Rob Eirich, whose deep roots in agriculture, education, and youth development make him an invaluable part of our mission.

Rob, a native of Bayard, NE, grew up on his family’s farming and ranching operation near Chimney Rock. With degrees from the University of Wyoming and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, he has spent nearly two decades serving Nebraska’s youth through Extension programs focused on 4-H, Youth Development, and Beef Cattle Systems. His more recent work in University Engagement and Extension Administration has further expanded his impact on rural communities.

Rob’s commitment to rural Nebraska and youth empowerment aligns seamlessly with the work of the Snow-Redfern Foundation. In his words:

“It is an honor to serve on the Snow-Redfern Foundation Board as it aligns with my commitment to rural Nebraska and empowering youth. It is so meaningful to support SRF’s dedication to fostering a participatory culture that lifts up youth voice in impactful decision-making for rural communities. Youth are the future of Nebraska, and we must empower them to help shape the communities where they will live and lead.”

Beyond his professional work, Rob and his wife, Joanna, reside near Scottsbluff, where they enjoy time with family, including their grandsons. He also finds joy in photography, livestock shows and visiting his family’s operation.

We are grateful for Rob’s leadership and dedication to creating opportunities for young people to shape the future of Nebraska. His insights, experience, and passion help guide our foundation’s mission to amplify youth voice and build stronger communities.

Join Us in Celebrating Rob’s Impact!

Rob’s leadership is just one example of how our board members help drive meaningful change. If you’d like to learn more about our mission or get involved, click on the Participation button at www.snowredfern.org.

At Snow-Redfern Foundation, our mission is driven by dedicated leaders who believe in the power of youth voice, community wisdom, and participatory practices. One of those leaders is Stephanie Vadnais, a committed advocate for meaningful engagement and youth empowerment.

Stephanie serves as the Assistant Vice President of Community Support and Innovation with Nebraska Children and Families Foundation. In her position, she plays a crucial role in providing support to Afterschool and Summer programs throughout the state of Nebraska. Growing up in Aurora, she is deeply committed to strengthening all of Nebraska’s communities by fostering strong relationships and providing extensive resources. Stephanie flourishes in collaborative environments that acknowledge, empower, and celebrate the unique qualities of individuals. She currently lives in Lincoln with her husband Jesse, two sons (12 and 10), and their lovable Goldendoodle.

Stephanie brings a deep passion for connection and growth to her role on our board. Her dedication to fostering environments where every young person is heard aligns seamlessly with our mission. She believes in the power of collaboration and transparency to build a system of care that truly supports Nebraska’s youth.

Stephanie shares her thoughts on why serving on the board of Snow-Redfern is so meaningful to her:

“I’m honored to serve on the board of the Snow-Redfern Foundation because their work embodies my commitment to connection and growth. I’m inspired by the innovative ways they empower young people and foster participatory environments where every voice can be heard. Through collaborative learning, meaningful engagement, and transparent partnerships, we can create a system of care in which every young Nebraskan can thrive.”

Her leadership and commitment to participatory practices play a crucial role in our ongoing work to elevate youth voice and create opportunities for young leaders. By engaging youth in decision-making, Stephanie and our board are helping to shape a more inclusive and equitable future.

We are grateful for Stephanie’s vision, dedication, and passion for ensuring every young person has the opportunity to succeed. Her work with Snow-Redfern Foundation is paving the way for a stronger, more youth-centered Nebraska.

Empowering Youth: A Permanent Seat at the Decision-Making Table

Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the changemakers of today. At Snow-Redfern Foundation, we believe that youth should have a permanent seat at the decision-making table, influencing the policies and programs that impact their lives and communities.

Too often, young voices are overlooked in conversations about philanthropy, leadership, and systems of care. By embedding youth into these spaces as equal decision-makers, we ensure that their perspectives, insights, and lived experiences shape meaningful solutions. This is not just about inclusion—it is about transformation.

Across Nebraska, we are creating opportunities for youth to take on leadership roles and engage in philanthropy in ways that are authentic and impactful. Through initiatives like our statewide Youth Board and Youth Grantmaking projects, we are shifting power back to young people, equipping them with the tools, resources, and support needed to drive positive change.

By embracing youth-led decision-making, we are building stronger, more responsive communities. When young people are given the authority to allocate funds, develop programs, and advocate for their peers, they become architects of a future that is more just, equitable, and representative.

The movement toward youth-led philanthropy is growing, and we are proud to be part of the effort to ensure that young voices are not just heard but valued and acted upon. Together, we can create a lasting impact—one where youth are not just participants, but powerful decision-makers shaping the world around them.

At Snow-Redfern Foundation, we believe in the power of youth voice, community wisdom, and meaningful engagement. These values come to life through the dedication of our board members—leaders who bring passion, expertise, and a shared vision for empowering young people. Megan Walter is one such leader who embodies these ideals.

As the Manager of Customer Engagement for Metropolitan Utilities District (M.U.D.) in Omaha, Megan has built her career around community outreach and supporting families in need. She plays a pivotal role in fundraising for the M.U.D. Home Fund, ensuring that families receive essential utility assistance. But her commitment to community impact extends beyond her professional role—she is deeply invested in creating opportunities for youth through her work with Snow-Redfern.

Raised in Alliance, Nebraska, Megan has always valued the strength of small communities and the potential of the next generation. Her belief in the power of young people aligns perfectly with Snow-Redfern’s mission. Since joining our Board of Directors in 2023, Megan has been an advocate for youth voice and a champion for change.

Megan’s perspective on this work is best captured in her own words:

“Throughout my career and as a proud member on this board, I have been driven by the belief that every young person should have a voice and has the potential to be a powerful changemaker. The mission at Snow Redfern of empowering youth, inspiring changemakers, and energizing partnerships is a vision I truly believe in. By dedicating time to this cause, I believe we are helping to create a brighter future for our youth and supporting the next generation of leaders who will shape our communities.”

Her passion for amplifying youth voice reflects Snow-Redfern’s broader commitment to engaging young leaders in decision-making processes. Through initiatives like our Youth Engagement Coordinator role and the development of a statewide Youth Board, we are actively working to shift power back to young people—ensuring they have a seat at the table in shaping their futures.

Megan’s leadership and dedication inspire us all. With board members like her championing this mission, we continue to build pathways for youth to lead, contribute, and thrive. Together, we are creating a future where every young person has the opportunity to be heard, valued, and empowered.

We are grateful for Megan’s contributions and look forward to the impact she and other changemakers will have in shaping the next generation of leaders.

At the heart of every strong community are individuals who dedicate their time, expertise, and passion to making a lasting impact. At Snow-Redfern Foundation, we are fortunate to have board members who embody these values, working tirelessly to uplift youth and strengthen Nebraska’s communities. One such leader is Jordan Diedrich, the Executive Director of Twin Cities Development.

For nearly two years, Jordan has been an integral part of our foundation’s efforts, bringing his experience in economic and workforce development to our mission. His commitment to youth empowerment extends beyond his role with Snow-Redfern. He played a pivotal role in creating Career Connections of Western Nebraska, a program designed to bridge education and industry, providing young people with pathways to meaningful careers. Today, his team at Twin Cities Development serves as the lead agency for Career Connections, ensuring that Nebraska’s youth have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

A Shared Vision for Empowering Youth

The work of Career Connections aligns closely with Snow-Redfern’s vision to amplify youth voices, foster collaboration, and create opportunities that lead to a brighter future. Our foundation believes that young people should be at the center of decision-making, shaping programs and initiatives that directly impact their lives. Through our partnership with leaders like Jordan, we continue to build pathways that not only support career readiness but also cultivate leadership and engagement among Nebraska’s youth.

The Power of Community and Volunteerism

Beyond his professional contributions, Joradan embodies the spirit of volunteerism and community service. His dedication to both his career and his role with Snow-Redfern exemplifies how strategic leadership and community involvement can come together to drive meaningful change. His belief in the power of collaboration and youth-driven solutions is evident in his own words:

“I am proud to dedicate part of my career and volunteer service to the Snow Redfern Foundation, where we work to empower youth, inspire change makers, and build stronger communities. By fostering collaboration, amplifying youth voices, and creating meaningful opportunities, we are shaping a future where all Nebraska youth can thrive.”

Strengthening Families, Strengthening Futures

At Snow-Redfern, we recognize that strong communities begin with strong families. When young people have access to supportive environments, career pathways, and engaged mentors, they are better equipped to succeed. Leaders like Jordan help reinforce the importance of family, education, and community partnerships in shaping a future where every young person has the chance to reach their full potential.

As we celebrate his contributions, we are reminded that it takes a collective effort to create lasting change. Through collaboration, mentorship, and a shared commitment to empowering the next generation, we can continue to build a Nebraska where youth have the resources, opportunities, and support they need to thrive.

Thank you, Jordan, for your dedication to this mission and for being a catalyst for positive change!

At Snow-Redfern Foundation, we believe that youth are not just beneficiaries of change—they are the changemakers. Our shift from traditional grantmaking to participatory philanthropy is rooted in this belief, ensuring that young people are at the forefront of decision-making processes that impact their lives. To make this vision a reality, we rely on exceptional board members who bring leadership, passion, and a deep commitment to youth empowerment.

Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Jason Davis to the Snow-Redfern Board of Directors! His lifelong dedication to youth leadership, mentorship, and education makes him a vital addition to our team.

A Passion for Youth Empowerment

Jason comes to Snow-Redfern with a wealth of experience working alongside young people at pivotal moments in their lives. From his early career at Boys Town, where he developed the skills to mentor and guide youth in a positive environment, to his current role as Associate Dean of Community and Workforce Education for Central Community College, he has consistently worked to help young people grow, make decisions, and find their path forward.

Reflecting on his new role with Snow-Redfern, he shared:

📣 “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to serve on the Snow-Redfern Board of Directors. Being from central Nebraska, I was not familiar with the work of the Snow-Redfern Foundation. Still, quickly, I learned what a fantastic organization this is that empowers youth to use their voice and affect real-world change.

“I have always been inspired to help youth change their lives and seek opportunities to grow and learn. My early work in my career at Boys Town gave me the tools and training needed to lead, mentor, and work with youth in a positive environment. The next chapter in my life took me to Central Community College, where I gained an opportunity to serve as the Associate Dean of Students. Again, this role allowed me to work with youth who were learning to be away from home, make decisions for themselves, and learn and grow through new experiences.”

The Power of Participatory Philanthropy

As Snow-Redfern continues its journey from a traditional grantmaking foundation to a participatory philanthropy model, leaders like Jason Davis play a critical role in shaping a future where youth have a permanent seat at the decision-making table. By bringing his expertise and dedication to mentorship, he strengthens our commitment to ensuring that young people are not just supported but actively involved in shaping the policies, programs, and funding decisions that impact them.

“Serving on the Board, I hope my work will help youth gain a voice in an ever-changing, complex world where youth matter and opportunities for growth are supported and guided. I am eager to work with my fellow board members, and I know our work will make a difference in the lives of those we serve through dedicated, informed decision-making.”

Looking Ahead

With the guidance of our dedicated board members, we continue to redistribute power, amplify youth voice, and create opportunities for meaningful engagement. We are honored to have Jason join us in this mission, and we look forward to the impact he will make in shaping a future led by the wisdom, leadership, and voices of youth.

Welcome to the team, Jason! 🎉

#YouthLeadership #ElevateYouthVoice #ParticipatoryPhilanthropy #EmpowerYouth #SnowRedfernFoundation

Empowering Young Leaders to Make Funding Decisions for Their Community

Alliance, NE, January 2025— The Snow-Redfern Foundation, in partnership with the Panhandle Public Health District, is excited to announce the successful completion of the first-ever Box Butte County Youth Grantmaking Workshop. This innovative project brought together a diverse group of Alliance and Hemingford students, ranging from 6th to 12th grade, to take on the role of grantmakers for their community.

The workshop provided a platform for the young participants to review 17 grant applications submitted by individuals, organizations, and groups serving youth in Box Butte County. Through a facilitated decision-making process, the students allocated $15,000 in Snow-Redfern Foundation funds to projects they identified as most impactful for their peers and community.

“This workshop exemplifies our commitment to Participatory Philanthropy,” said Sara Wilcox, Executive Director of the Snow-Redfern Foundation. “By shifting decision-making power to young people, we empower them to take an active role in shaping their communities while developing leadership and critical thinking skills. We believe that youth philanthropy, as a model of participatory grantmaking, is a practice that helps move us towards a democratic, inclusive, and regenerative economy, that will one day be led by these young people”.

Grant Awards:

  • The Body Shop in Hemingford: Supporting youth-focused outdoor capital project.
  • Fellowship of Christian Athletes for an Alliance Huddle: Creating a safe space for youth.

The process was designed to center youth voice and ensure meaningful engagement in philanthropy. Participants carefully evaluated applications, deliberated collaboratively, and reached consensus on how best to distribute funds to address local needs. The workshop also provided an opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience with grantmaking, an area traditionally led by adults.

“It was inspiring to watch the students thoughtfully discuss the merits of each application and make decisions that they felt would create the greatest impact,” said Kelsey Sasse with Panhandle Public Health District. “They brought unique perspectives and a deep understanding of their community’s needs.”

The Impact of Participatory Philanthropy
The Youth Grantmaking Workshop aligns with the Snow-Redfern Foundation’s mission to elevate youth voice, advance community support, and enhance systems of care. By engaging young people directly in the philanthropic process, the foundation is fostering a new generation of leaders who are equipped to make thoughtful, inclusive decisions that benefit their communities.

To further advance these efforts, the Snow-Redfern Foundation recently hired Alliance native, Maycee Quick, as the Youth Engagement Coordinator. In this role, Maycee will assist in creating a statewide youth board that will place youth at the helm of sharing power and decision-making with the foundation. This initiative reflects the foundation’s dedication to shifting traditional power dynamics and empowering young people to lead meaningful change across Nebraska.

This first workshop is just the beginning. The Snow-Redfern Foundation plans to expand this participatory model across Nebraska, providing more opportunities for young people to lead, collaborate, share their voice and talents, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

For more information about the Snow-Redfern Foundation’s participatory philanthropy initiatives, visit www.snowredfern.org.

About the Snow-Redfern Foundation
The Snow-Redfern Foundation is dedicated to empowering youth, inspiring changemakers, and energizing partnerships to create lasting community impact. By fostering collaboration and amplifying youth voice, the foundation works with communities to create equitable opportunities for Nebraska’s young people.

About Panhandle Public Health District
Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safely, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work and play in the Panhandle.