YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Thrive Mahoning Valley continued to build systems of belonging throughout 2025, and in 2026 it plans to expand its Trumbull County presence, according to the organization’s latest annual report.
Thrive Mahoning Valley, established in 2018, strives to welcome Valley newcomers.
“This past year reaffirmed something we know to be true: lasting change happens through collaboration,” a news release accompanying the report says. “Whether through funding, program partnerships, shared advocacy or simply showing up for our community, your involvement strengthens this work and helps move our region forward.”
In the annual report, released late last month, Christopher Colón, Thrive executive director, said newcomers are arriving across the Valley.
“We are committed to building stronger relationships with Trumbull County schools, service providers, employers and community organizations so that families, workers and young people there have the same access to resources, opportunities and community that Thrive has helped cultivate in Mahoning County,” he said.
Colón said in the report that the organization will continue developing pathways to remove barriers in housing, transportation, child care, language access and employment.
“We know that when newcomers succeed, the whole Valley succeeds,” he said.
The report notes that last year, the organization received more than $257,000 in grants and donations and assisted 56 newcomers. It also served 834 meals and engaged 19 businesses and 625 students. Thrive also gave away more than 100 bicycles through its Pedal Forward program. It accepts donations of gently used or new adult bicycles, new bicycle parts and new helmets and locks. The bikes enable adults with transportation needs to travel short distances.