YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – MS Consultants has contributed $5,000 to the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber Foundation to help advance the strategic redevelopment of the city’s downtown.
The contribution marks the firm’s second $5,000 investment to the downtown initiative, following its initial gift in 2024.
The funding is part of an $8,000 allocation from MS Consultants to support all of the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber’s strategic initiatives, including population and talent expansion and housing.
“We are happy to make this donation to the Chamber Foundation to continue our unwavering commitment to the revitalization and growth of downtown Youngstown and the broader Mahoning Valley area,” said Mark Buchenic, eastern Ohio regional director for MS Consultants. “Youngstown holds a special place for us; it’s where MS Consultants was founded more than 60 years ago, and we’ll continue to invest our resources and expertise to help the community thrive. With close to 80 employees working on East Federal Street, our dedication to downtown Youngstown is evident in the various projects we undertake and our continued partnerships with local organizations.”
The downtown initiative, led by the Economic Action Group, is supported by $25,000 from the city and a $50,000 JobsOhio Vibrant Communities grant facilitated by Lake to River Economic Development.
In support of EAG’s work, the Regional Chamber will mobilize its communications team to generate earned media and boost visibility around downtown events, as well as engage its events team to create new activities.
“We are deeply grateful to MS Consultants for their generous contributions and enduring support of the chamber and our mission,” said Jim Gasior, president of the Regional Chamber Foundation. “Their investment in our downtown revitalization efforts exemplifies a true commitment to uplifting our community. Support like this helps drive real progress in downtown Youngstown and inspires others to get involved in shaping our region’s future.”
Guy Coviello, president and CEO of the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber, pointed to challenges downtown businesses have faced in recent years.
“From the pandemic to road closures and the tragic May 28, 2024, Realty Tower explosion, downtown Youngstown businesses have faced extraordinary challenges,” Coviello said. “Thanks to partners like MS Consultants and the strategic efforts led by EAG, we are moving forward with a bold plan to rebuild a vibrant and prosperous downtown.”
Pictured at top: From left are Mark Buchenic, eastern Ohio regional director at MS Consultants; Tony Urankar, northeast Ohio regional director at MS Consultants; Guy Coviello, president and CEO of the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber; and Jim Gasior, president of the Regional Chamber Foundation.