Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN — Simply Slavic, billed as Ohio’s premier celebration of Slavic culture and heritage, is preparing for its 15th anniversary festival — a milestone the nonprofit is marking by expanding to three days of programming for the first time.

The festival runs June 26 to 28 at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre in downtown Youngstown. Organizers expect thousands of visitors from Ohio, Pennsylvania and neighboring states.

With the added day of programming, organizers say community involvement — through volunteering and donations to the festival’s basket raffle — is more critical than ever.

“Simply Slavic has always been powered by volunteers,” said Bob Capp, the festival’s volunteer coordinator. “Whether welcoming guests, working the bar, assisting with merchandise sales or helping support cultural activities, every volunteer helps bring Simply Slavic to life for the community.”

Volunteers are needed in a range of roles across the three-day event, including festival setup and teardown, guest hospitality, cultural activity assistance, merchandise and raffle support, children’s area activities and general operations.

Both individuals and community groups are encouraged to sign up. Flexible shifts are available and volunteers may commit to as little as a few hours. Those interested can contact the festival at volunteer@simplyslavic.org.

Alongside the volunteer push, organizers are soliciting donations for the festival’s basket raffle, an annual fundraiser that benefits Simply Slavic’s educational programming and cultural preservation work.

Sought items include gift baskets, gift cards, themed experiences, restaurant certificates, event tickets, handmade or culturally significant items, and goods or services from local businesses. Donors will be recognized in festival communications where possible.

“This festival exists because the community believes these traditions matter,” said Nicholas DuBos, the basket raffle chair. “Whether someone volunteers a few hours, donates a basket or attends the festival, every contribution helps keep Slavic heritage alive in the Mahoning Valley.”

Raffle donations can be arranged by contacting info@simplyslavic.org or calling 330-333-1441.