DeKalb County Community Foundation Appoints Kyle White as Manager

The DeKalb County Community Foundation has appointed Kyle White as its new community engagement manager and Youth Engaged in Philanthropy (YEP) manager. This announcement comes as part of the Foundation’s efforts to enhance community outreach and support youth leadership within the region.

White’s involvement with the Foundation began in October 2024 when he joined as the part-time YEP Manager. In this capacity, he served as the primary staff advisor for the YEP program, collaborating closely with the youth-led YEP Executive Committee. His responsibilities included guiding high school students in meetings, volunteer activities, and grantmaking decisions, while fostering both leadership skills and community engagement.

Strengthening Community Connections

In his newly expanded role, White will focus on enhancing the Foundation’s community engagement initiatives. This includes outreach, relationship-building, and implementing programs directed by the Foundation Board. His dual position aims to strengthen ties between youth leadership and broader community engagement across DeKalb County.

“We are excited that Kyle has taken on an expanded role at the Foundation,” said Jolene Willis, grants and community initiatives director. “His experience leading our Youth Engaged in Philanthropy program, combined with his skills in outreach and relationship building, make him an outstanding addition to our community engagement efforts and collaborative initiatives across DeKalb County.”

Experience and Vision

White holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and has over 30 years of experience working with students and nonprofit organizations in DeKalb County. Reflecting on his recent tenure with YEP, White expressed his enthusiasm for his expanded responsibilities: “This past year with YEP has been a fruitful, collaborative time of asking, ‘What could happen in our community?’ I look forward to growing into this expanded role and asking that same question. I am thankful for the additional opportunity with the Foundation.”

For more information about the Youth Engaged in Philanthropy program or the Foundation’s community engagement efforts, interested parties can contact Kyle White directly at [email protected] or by phone at 815-748-5383.