Recognized for Leading Change in 2026
Festa and YWCA Columbus, two of our 2026 Easton Community Foundation program partners have been named among the “5 Nonprofits to Watch” in 2026 – a well-earned distinction that highlights their leadership and impact. This recognition celebrates the meaningful work both organizations continue to lead and the difference they are making across the community.
Festa: Empowering Families Through Education
Festa, known for its transformative three-generation English education program, continues to break cycles of poverty by equipping families from all walks of life with the tools to thrive. By building relationships across cultures and empowering families through education, Festa is strengthening the very fabric of the Columbus community.
YWCA Columbus: Advancing Equity & Opportunity
YWCA Columbus stands firmly on the front lines of change, working to eliminate racism, empower women, and provide critical housing, childcare, and advocacy services. Their daily impact reaches hundreds of families, children, and individuals seeking safety, opportunity, and a better future.
Fueling Growth Through Strategic Investment
Being named to this prestigious list means both organizations are not only making an impact, but are poised to lead the way on some of today’s most pressing issues. This recognition symbolizes more than honor, but serves as a signal of momentum.
As part of this acheivement, each organization was awarded a $20,000 unrestricted grant from The Columbus Foundation, along with a year-long consulting engagement with UpRys. This investment will help accelerate their growth, expand their reach, and build long-term sustainability, ensuring their impact only deepens in the years ahead.
Building a Stronger Future for Columbus
This moment underscores the value of organizations that are not only doing meaningful work, but are positioned to grow. It reflects a continued commitment to strengthening impact over time through collaboration, support, and impactful change.
Congratulations to two of Easton’s ECF proud partners, Festa and YWCA Columbus – two organizations not just to watch in 2026, but ones helping shape a better quality community for years to come.
Want to learn more about Festa, YWCA Columbus, and the other nonprofits to watch all 2026?
Click here for the full article from The Columbus Foundation.
