Funds raised through 2024 Downtown Tiffin Pizza Party aim to support youth mentorship in Seneca County
The Seneca County Young Professionals (SCYP) presented a check for $7,000 to the Seneca Mentoring Youth Links (SMYL) Foundation as part of their 2024 Downtown Tiffin Pizza Party fundraising efforts. Held on Sept. 19, the event drew thousands of attendees to downtown Tiffin as part of the Third Thursday Series and showcased the power of community collaboration.
“On behalf of the SMYL Foundation, we are deeply grateful for this incredible donation,” said Mandi Hummel, SMYL Foundation President. “These funds will directly support the youth in our mentoring program, ensuring they have the resources and guidance they need to thrive. The generosity shown by SCYP and our community is truly lifechanging.”
SMYL is a program of the Seneca County Family & Children First Council, serving youth ages 6 to 17 by pairing them with mentors who provide friendship and guidance through a minimum of four hours of interaction each month.
SMYL also runs the Impact afterschool program at A Little Faith Ministries, which provides tutoring and additional mentoring opportunities. These initiatives are bolstered by events like the SMYL Basket Party, which took place during the Downtown Tiffin Pizza Party and raised over $5,000 for the program through the raffle of 105 donated baskets.
SCYP’s annual Downtown Tiffin Pizza Party has raised over $55,000 for local nonprofits in its history, with this year’s event marking another milestone.
“This program is so impactful because the youth in our community are our future,” said Downtown Tiffin Pizza Party Co-Chair, Bryce Riggs. “The more we can do to support them, the better. It’s been an honor to work with SMYL this year, knowing the incredible difference they make in kids’ lives.”
This year’s Pizza Party also represents a bittersweet moment for SCYP, as the organization prepares to transition into a dormant state after 10 years of fostering connection, growth and inspiration among emerging leaders in Seneca County. SCYP board members emphasized that while the organization’s chapter is closing, its legacy and signature events like the Pizza Party will continue under new leadership.
“The Downtown Tiffin Pizza Party has been a bright point for SCYP and our community,” said SCYP President Marisa Huss. “We’re proud of the tens of thousands of dollars raised for local nonprofits over the years, and we’re confident that the event will remain a cherished tradition moving forward.”
Looking ahead, the 2025 Downtown Tiffin Pizza Party is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, ensuring that this vibrant community tradition continues to make a lasting impact.
About the Seneca County Young Professionals
SCYP’s mission is to provide a group of career-oriented individuals opportunities to facilitate personal and professional connections, inspire others and to grow as individuals. SCYP’s vision is to enhance the vitality of the Tiffin and Seneca County community by creating a strong network of young professionals.