The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley traces its roots to 2005, when community leaders, local business owners, members of civil service and local government, and the Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity gathered for the inaugural Game of Hope Basketball Event. It was more than a fundraiser — it was proof that this community would show up for its children.
The response that day left a lasting impression on our Founder, Anthony Spano. He saw what was possible when a community came together with a single purpose, and he set out to make it permanent.
After two years of planning, organizing, and building the right team, Anthony Spano officially founded the Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley in 2007 with a group of community volunteers. From its very first day, the Foundation has been driven by one goal: to improve the lives of children facing chronic and terminal illness — through financial assistance, wish-granting, community grants, and unwavering advocacy.
In 2027, we celebrate twenty years of that mission. And we’re just getting started.
One of the most important things to understand about the Hope Foundation is this: Every event is planned and run by volunteers. Every dollar raised goes directly to supporting the children and families we serve.
That’s a promise we’ve kept for twenty years, and one we intend to keep for twenty more.
Our success is a testament to the power of community — and to the Board of Trustees who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every decision serves this mission and every dollar reaches the children who need it most.
The Hope Foundation is guided by an experienced and passionate Board of Trustees who volunteer their time, expertise, and leadership to ensure every decision we make serves the children and families of the Mahoning Valley.
The Board establishes organizational policy, approves all grant distributions, and oversees the responsible stewardship of every dollar entrusted to us. Supporting the Board, our grant review committees evaluate every application for assistance — personally, carefully, and with deep commitment to the families who depend on us.
Every grant we award. Every wish we grant. Every event we host. Every dollar we raise. It all comes back to one thing — the children and families of the Mahoning Valley who are walking the hardest road imaginable.
We believe every child deserves joy. We believe every family deserves support. And we believe this community has the heart to make both of those things possible.
#ItsALLfortheKIDS
Twenty years in, our best work is still ahead of us. Whether you donate, volunteer, apply for assistance, or simply share our story — there is a place for you in this mission.
