Help shape your community’s future. Vote in the SPARK! contest by Nov. 16.

The final round of voting is now open for SPARK!, a community contest created by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) that proves everyone can spark change in their community. Residents across South Central Pennsylvania are invited to help decide which cause will receive a $10,000 permanent fund that will support local nonprofits for years to come.

Voting is open through Nov. 16 at www.tfec.org/spark.

Five causes have advanced to the final round:

• Building Strong Readers From the Start
• Addressing Gun Violence
• Support Services for Those Experiencing Homelessness
• Mental Health Awareness
• Assisting Families with Special Needs Services

Each cause represents the compassion and commitment of local residents who want to make a difference in their communities.

For Jairee Ann Counterman, who submitted Building Strong Readers From the Start, early literacy is the foundation for lifelong learning.

"Up to 90 percent of brain development occurs before age five," Counterman said. "Early literacy programs are crucial to developing vocabulary and reading skills that can't be made up later."

Keairra Hopkins-Dawood shared her experience as an educator who has seen firsthand how gun violence affects students and families.

"Our children deserve to grow up in safe communities," Hopkins-Dawood said. "Addressing gun violence by reducing access to firearms and studying its root causes is essential."

For Amanda Beitler, who submitted Support Services for Those Experiencing Homelessness, the cause is deeply personal.

"This cause is important to me because I've been in similar situations," Beitler said. "I want to be able to help those who need it and want it. Seeing people I care about change and make it gives me hope that others can too."

Asia Wannamaker, who submitted Mental Health Awareness, believes mental wellness is essential for every person to thrive.

"Mental health enables individuals to cope with life's stresses, realize their abilities, and contribute meaningfully to their communities," Wannamaker said. "I'd like to see increased access to care and early intervention for those who need support."

The fifth finalist, Assisting Families with Special Needs Services, focuses on supporting families in accessing the care and tools they need to help their children reach their full potential.

"Philanthropy isn't just for a select few. It belongs to everyone who cares about their community," said Jennifer Doyle, president and CEO of TFEC. "SPARK! is about turning passion into action. By sharing your idea, you can spark change that grows far beyond one person. With the power of collective giving, your vision can become a permanent $10,000 fund supporting nonprofits right here in our region. Together, we create something bigger than any one person could achieve."

Residents can vote through Nov. 16 at www.tfec.org/spark. The winning cause will be announced in December and will become a $10,000 permanent fund through TFEC, providing grants to nonprofits that support the selected issue.