Youth Grants

The Youth Climate Action Fund, sponsored by the City of Atlanta in partnership with 21st Century Leaders, aims to activate young people aged 15-24 to develop, implement, and govern climate solutions within their communities. This initiative aligns with the city's broader sustainability, clean energy, and climate resilience goals, emphasizing youth leadership and innovation in addressing urgent environmental challenges. The program seeks to foster a generation of climate-conscious leaders by providing them with the resources and opportunities to create tangible impact. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are Atlanta youth between 15 and 24 years old, who can apply individually or as groups. The program's impact goals are centered on empowering these young individuals to become active participants in climate action, leading to a more sustainable and resilient city. Through their projects, the fund aims to increase climate awareness, promote adaptation and mitigation efforts, and encourage co-governed climate action plans that integrate youth perspectives into policy and decision-making processes. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate youth-led innovations in several key areas. These include awareness, education, research, and development initiatives such as climate education programs, hackathons, surveys, and public art campaigns. It also focuses on youth-driven climate mitigation and adaptation projects like community gardening, tree planting, waste reduction programs, and disaster preparedness workshops. Furthermore, the fund supports co-governed youth climate action plans, fostering partnerships between city leaders and youth groups to inform climate-related policy and establish youth climate ambassadors or advisory boards. Expected outcomes include a significant increase in youth engagement in climate solutions, with tens of thousands of young people participating in designing and governing projects. Measurable results will stem from the microgrant program, awarding grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to eligible projects. The success of the program will be evaluated by the demonstrated impact of these youth-led initiatives on local sustainability, clean energy, and climate resilience goals, as well as the development of youth-focused activities like a youth climate action summit. The fund's strategic priority is to integrate youth voice and action into the core of Atlanta's climate strategy, embodying a theory of change where empowered youth are catalysts for meaningful and lasting environmental improvements.

The Jackson National Life Insurance Company (Jackson) offers Community grants aimed at strengthening families and increasing economic opportunities. These grants align with Jackson's mission to support non-profits that positively impact individual trajectories and provide stability for families. The program has two main focus areas: Economic Opportunities and Strong Families, reflecting the foundation's strategic priorities to build on stability and help break cycles of poverty and trauma. Under the Economic Opportunities focus, Jackson supports non-profits that provide access to finance, employment, and education. This includes initiatives related to Career Pathways and Job Skills, Financial Education and Coaching, and Homeownership and Wealth Building. The expected outcome is to change individual trajectories by providing the tools and resources necessary for financial independence and stability. While specific measurable results are not explicitly stated, the focus on tangible areas like job skills and homeownership implies a theory of change where targeted interventions lead to improved economic well-being. The Strong Families focus is dedicated to supporting non-profits that help families overcome generational poverty and trauma by addressing their most critical needs. This encompasses programs providing Emergency Shelter, Access to Food, Intervention and care after crisis, Resilient Parenting and accessible Childcare, and Youth Mentoring. The goal is to provide stability and support, leading to a break in cycles of poverty and trauma. The foundation's theory of change here is that by providing foundational support and care, families can achieve greater resilience and well-being. Jackson awards funding to local nonprofits in specific geographic areas, including Lansing, MI, Nashville, TN, and Chicago, IL, through a competitive grant process. The eligibility criteria emphasize support for 501(c)3 tax-exempt organizations, with specific restrictions against funding individuals, private foundations, certain health and disease-specific organizations, religious organizations (unless broadly accessible and free from religious orientation), and schools or school-affiliated sports teams/clubs. This highlights Jackson's commitment to partnering with established non-profits that align with their community-focused mission and strategic priorities.

The Manhattan Composting Award, offered by the Manhattan Borough, aims to combat climate change by reducing organic waste in the waste stream through supporting composting programs. This initiative aligns with a broader mission to address environmental challenges at the local level by fostering sustainable practices within the community. The grant specifically focuses on promoting composting as an accessible and effective method for waste reduction, thereby contributing to a healthier environment and mitigating the effects of climate change within Manhattan. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are youth, seniors, intergenerational populations, and the broader Manhattan community. The grant seeks to impact these groups by increasing their engagement in composting activities and enhancing their understanding of its importance. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge and resources to participate in organic waste diversion, leading to a measurable reduction in the volume of organic materials sent to landfills. Project priorities for the Manhattan Composting Award include the establishment and expansion of composting and composting education programs tailored for youth and seniors, as well as initiatives that foster intergenerational participation. Community engagement efforts that highlight the benefits of composting and the diverse options available throughout Manhattan are also a key focus. These priorities underscore a comprehensive approach to integrating composting into the daily lives of residents across different age groups and demographics. The expected outcomes of this grant include a significant increase in the number of composting programs implemented and the level of community participation in these programs. Measurable results will likely involve tracking the volume of organic waste diverted from landfills, the number of individuals educated through composting programs, and the establishment of new composting infrastructure. While a specific theory of change or explicit strategic priorities of the "foundation" (in this case, the Manhattan Borough) are not detailed, the program implicitly operates on the theory that increased community participation and education in composting will directly lead to reduced waste, a cleaner environment, and a more sustainable urban ecosystem. The focus on education and community engagement suggests a belief that empowering residents with knowledge and practical skills is the most effective way to achieve long-term environmental benefits.

The City of Boulder's Human Services Fund (HSF) is an annual grant program designed to improve the well-being of community members facing social or economic disparities. The fund is sourced from the city's general fund and aims to strategically invest resources in programs and services that promote shared outcomes aligned with the city's mission of fostering a more equitable and supportive community. The HSF targets individuals and groups experiencing systemic socio-economic barriers, those who have been historically excluded, and those in need of basic assistance. The grant program's impact goals are to increase economic stability, mobility, and resilience; enhance access to and maintenance of housing; advance personal growth, development, and leadership potential; create safe environments for people with diverse identities; improve physical, mental, or behavioral health and well-being; and increase the ability of community members to access critical services. Key priorities for the HSF include supporting programs that demonstrate sound research and evidence-based best practices, value lived experience and cultural knowledge, and meaningfully engage community members in program design, implementation, and evaluation. The program also emphasizes strong collaboration and equitable partnerships, cost-effectiveness, and a commitment to sustained financial stability and diverse funding sources from applicants. Expected outcomes and measurable results are central to the HSF. Programs must be directly linked to specific outcomes and indicators, with a strong focus on long-term evaluation. This aligns with the city's strategic priority to invest in initiatives that not only address immediate needs but also demonstrate a clear path towards lasting positive change and self-sufficiency for beneficiaries. The grant period for accepted proposals is January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.

This grant provides financial support to arts and cultural organizations, individual artists, and local schools in Rowan County to enhance access to arts and cultural opportunities.

The Men's Fund of Vanderburgh County, managed by the Vanderburgh Community Foundation, aims to improve the quality of life in Vanderburgh County, Indiana, by collectively funding significant grants for charitable initiatives. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to address current community needs and create positive social change through the efforts of male philanthropists. The fund is open to nonprofit organizations deemed tax-exempt under sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, as well as governmental agencies serving Vanderburgh County. Non-501(c)(3) public charities may also be considered if their proposal is charitable, supports a community need, and meets the stated criteria, requiring a fiscal sponsor in such cases. The target beneficiaries of the grants are underserved residents of Vanderburgh County, with impact goals centered on improving their quality of life. The fund prioritizes both program activities and capital projects across various areas, including Community Development, Education, Health/Mental Health, Human Services, and Other Civic Endeavors (Arts & Culture, Environment, Recreation, and Youth Development). Endowment creation is also an area considered for both program and project funding. The strategic priorities emphasize supporting organizations that demonstrate long-range planning, financial stability, sustainability, and sound plans to address ongoing or emerging issues. Key considerations for funding include a commitment to long-range planning, financial stability, and sustainability. Organizations should have sound plans to address ongoing or emerging issues identified by research, specific and realistic plans for program or project evaluation, and a desire to promote collaboration to prevent duplication of services. The fund also values project methodologies utilizing preventative strategies for addressing issues and solving problems, along with evidence of organizational planning and management. This reflects a theory of change that emphasizes well-managed, collaborative, and preventative approaches to community challenges. The expected outcomes include significant improvements in the quality of life for Vanderburgh County residents through funded initiatives. Measurable results are tied to the specific evaluation plans outlined in successful proposals. The 2024 Impact Grant Award will be for $30,000, and funded programs and projects must commence within six months of the award and be completed within two years from the grant receipt date. Past recipients of the Impact Grant must observe a two-year waiting period before reapplying, ensuring broader access to funding for various community organizations.

This funding program provides financial support for projects aligned with the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, targeting K-12 schools and innovative initiatives across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and select regions.

The Richard C. Munroe Foundation Grant Program is currently accepting applications, with a deadline of August 15, 2024. This program, offered by The Richard C. Munroe Foundation, provides grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, although typical grants are between $3,000 and $15,000. The foundation's mission aligns with supporting specific project or capital need expenses, rather than operating expenses, emphasizing a strategic use of limited funds and a preference against guaranteed future participation. The foundation primarily targets small organizations or programs with a minimum of three years of operational history. Beneficiaries include those involved in human services, particularly programs for at-risk youth and the impoverished, as well as arts programs that aid the at-risk population, and environmental initiatives. The foundation aims for the grants to serve as leverage, enabling recipients to successfully solicit funds from larger charitable organizations, thereby maximizing their impact. Geographically, the Richard C. Munroe Foundation prefers to focus on the metro Atlanta area to facilitate monitoring of recipients, unless a board member has specific information regarding an organization requesting a grant outside this area. This strategic focus ensures closer oversight and more effective deployment of resources. The grant's specific focus areas are human services, arts, and environment, all with an underlying goal of aiding vulnerable populations and fostering community well-being. Expected outcomes include the successful completion of specific projects or capital improvements by recipient organizations. While not explicitly detailed as measurable results, the foundation's preference for funding tangible needs suggests an expectation of observable progress and sustained impact within the communities served. By supporting smaller, established organizations, the foundation seeks to empower them to grow and attract further funding, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

The Gratiot County Community Foundation in Michigan is accepting grant applications for projects that improve the quality of life in Gratiot County, focusing on areas such as community development, arts and culture, education, and health, with preference given to innovative, sustainable projects with wide-reaching benefits and strong local support.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to non-profit organizations that use football to help underprivileged children and young people while promoting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The Greater New Orleans Foundation's Impact Special Funding Grant Program is designed to support organizations specifically engaged in health and youth development work within the Greater New Orleans region. This initiative aligns with the foundation's broader mission to foster the health and vibrancy of communities by investing in key areas that promote well-being and growth, particularly for underserved populations. The grant program seeks to empower non-profit organizations that are actively contributing to the community's overall health and the positive development of its youth. Target beneficiaries for this program include individuals and communities in high need within the Greater New Orleans region, particularly those benefiting from health and youth development services. The program aims to achieve significant impact by supporting organizations that demonstrate strong leadership, sound fiscal management, and a proven track record of success. Through these grants, the foundation intends to foster environments where equity is prioritized, community members are actively involved as leaders, and advocacy for underserved groups is robust. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined, emphasizing several key areas. Preference is given to organizations that exhibit strong leadership at both staff and board levels, coupled with good fiscal management practices. A growing track record of success is also a critical factor. Furthermore, the foundation prioritizes a commitment to equity for high-need communities, thoughtful involvement of community members as leaders, and significant contributions to community health and vibrancy. Advocacy on behalf of underserved communities at various levels (community, legislative, judicial, executive) is also a strong focus, as is the creative engagement of multiple stakeholders to generate new public support for non-profit work. Expected outcomes include enhanced health and youth development services, increased community well-being, and strengthened non-profit capacity within the Greater New Orleans area. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in terms of quantitative targets, the emphasis on a "growing track record of success" and "key contributions to the health and vibrancy of the communities they serve" implies a focus on demonstrable positive change. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change appear to center on the belief that investing in organizations with strong internal capacities, community-driven approaches, and advocacy efforts will lead to sustainable improvements in health outcomes and youth development for the region's most vulnerable populations. The integration of individual, family, and community views into needs assessment and policy initiatives further underscores this holistic approach to creating lasting impact.

This funding opportunity is available for organizations that have not received a grant from GCCF this year or previously applied without success, supporting a wide range of programs and projects that don't fit into other categories.

This grant provides financial support to local charitable organizations, nonprofits, and government entities in Cherokee County to enhance community services and programs.

This program provides funding to charitable organizations in Moore County that focus on improving health, education, and human services for women, children, and families while promoting women's leadership in philanthropy.

This grant provides funding to local charitable organizations, governments, and religious entities in Harnett County to support various community-focused programs and initiatives.

This grant provides financial support to charitable organizations that assist women, children, and families in Currituck and Dare counties, promoting community initiatives and women's leadership in philanthropy.

This grant provides financial support to local nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities in Alexander, Caldwell, and Catawba counties, with a focus on early childhood development, mental health, and substance use disorders.

This grant provides financial support to local charitable organizations in Jones County, North Carolina, to help them enhance community services and initiatives.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to charitable organizations, local governments, schools, and religious entities that serve the Craven County community.

The California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) has launched the Youth Community Access Program, a competitive grant initiative designed to expand outdoor access and foster a healthier California. This program is rooted in supporting youth access to natural or cultural resources, with a specific focus on low-income and disadvantaged communities. While the provided information does not explicitly detail the "foundation's mission alignment" or "strategic priorities and theory of change" in terms of a separate foundation, the CNRA's overarching mission to protect and restore California's natural resources and promote equitable access aligns directly with the program's goals. The program's aim to address and repair the multi-generational community impacts of the War on Drugs further underscores a commitment to social justice and community well-being. The primary beneficiaries of this program are youth, defined as individuals between birth and 26 years old, residing in communities disproportionately affected by past federal and state drug policies, as well as other underserved communities. The impact goals are multifaceted: to promote youth health, safety, well-being, and comfort by facilitating direct access to natural or cultural resources. This includes supporting community education and recreational amenities for youth substance use prevention and early intervention, ultimately empowering youth to make healthy choices and fostering a healthier, more engaged generation. The program prioritizes projects that actively involve youth in all stages, from planning and decision-making to facilitation and evaluation. Additionally, projects that engage youth in outreach and awareness campaigns, and those that empower youth to make healthy choices, are given priority consideration. These focuses emphasize a youth-centric, participatory approach, aiming for sustainable community-led change rather than top-down interventions. The minimum award for an individual project is $25,000, and the maximum is $300,000, indicating a range of project scales supported. While specific measurable results are not explicitly outlined, the expected outcomes can be inferred from the program's requirements and priorities. These include increased youth participation in outdoor and cultural activities, enhanced community capacity for youth development, reduced instances of substance use through prevention and early intervention efforts, and improved overall health and well-being among young people in targeted communities. The emphasis on youth involvement in planning and evaluation suggests an ongoing feedback loop to assess program effectiveness and impact.