Heart-to-Heart with Sylvia Mantella
For the past 13 years, Mantella Corporation, under the leadership of Sylvia Mantella, has been a proud Presenting Sponsor of Time4Change, our annual art activism event. Mantella recognizes the power of activism and engagement in driving meaningful, lasting change. As a corporate leader, community champion, and philanthropist, Sylvia Mantella exemplifies the spirit of giving, with a deep commitment to supporting the communities where we live and work—so that we can all thrive together. Thank you, Sylvia, and the entire Mantella team, for your unwavering support!
Q: What inspires you to support this organization? What makes YWS stand out to you among other causes?
A: I love the grassroots nature of YWS. It is very important to me personally, as well as to Mantella Corporation, to support and give back to our community organizations. YWS stands out to me because it is more than just an emergency shelter—it provides wraparound support for youth experiencing homelessness by building their self-esteem, resilience, and personal strengths. Approximately three years ago, one of our team members at Mantella Corporation advised me that YWS was a lifeline to one of her young family members. That made a significant and lasting impact on me.
Q: How do you decide where to focus your philanthropic efforts? What are your top priorities when it comes to giving?
A: Deciding where to focus philanthropic efforts comes down to impact, alignment with values, and sustainability. The top priorities when it comes to giving often include:
Creating Lasting Change: Empowering marginalized communities and prioritizing causes that uplift underrepresented or vulnerable groups, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities for lasting success.
Transparency & Accountability: Choosing organizations that demonstrate measurable impact, financial responsibility, and clear outcomes for their programs.
Personal Connection & Passion: Focusing on causes that resonate personally, whether through lived experience, community ties, or a deep belief in their mission.
Q: Which of our programs or initiatives resonates with you the most, and why?
A: One of the most impactful programs at YWS is the Stay in School Program. It stands out because it directly addresses the barriers that prevent youth experiencing homelessness from continuing their education. Many young people in unstable housing situations are forced to drop out due to financial stress, lack of support, or the need to prioritize basic survival over school. This program provides them with safe housing, academic support, and mentorship, ensuring they can stay in school and work toward a better future. Education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness, so this initiative feels especially meaningful.
Q: What impact do you hope to achieve through your generosity?
A: The ultimate goal, whether through time, resources, or advocacy, is to create meaningful, lasting impact. When supporting an organization like YWS, the hope is to empower young people with the tools, support, and opportunities they need to overcome barriers and build independent, fulfilling lives. Ultimately, YWS works to break cycles of inequality and helps disadvantaged youth access a way to a better life. I hope my support inspires others to give back. Generosity has a ripple effect. Supporting a cause can encourage others to get involved, creating a stronger, more compassionate community.
Q: If you could share one thing about this cause that everyone should understand, what would it be?
A: If I could share one thing about YWS, it would be that the organization goes beyond just providing a bed – they provide a real pathway to stability and independence for youth experiencing homelessness. Their programs don’t just focus on short-term relief; they help young people build self-sufficiency through education, employment, and life skills training.
Q: What aspect of YWS do you think more people should know about?
A: More people should know that YWS is not just a shelter; it is a stepping stone to a brighter future. Many assume youth homelessness is just about lacking a place to sleep, but YWS understands that stable housing is only the beginning. They offer comprehensive support, including education assistance, job training, life skills workshops, and mental health resources – each tailored to empower young people and help them break free from the cycle of homelessness for good. More people should recognize that when you support YWS, you’re not just providing emergency relief; you’re investing in real, lasting change.
