Youth Advisory Committee Grants

Community Funds

Starting an Endowment

What is the Youth Advisory Committee?

The Wyoming Community Foundation Youth Advisory Committee seeks to improve the community by teaching about the giving of time, talent, and treasure while funding programs that help youth gain advantages and build character.

The Youth Advisory Committee is composed of students representing high schools located in the Wyoming area. We are committed to addressing and improving problems concerning young people by funding programs directed toward youth. Membership on the Youth Advisory Committee is open to any Wyoming-area high school student willing to commit to volunteer. The Youth Advisory Committee is affiliated with the Wyoming Community Foundation.

What types of programs or projects will be funded?

Based on the results of a survey conducted at four Wyoming-area high schools, primary consideration will be given to projects that address drug and/or alcohol use, teen pregnancy, stress, smoking, and sexual abuse.

Based on a survey of Wyoming youth, suggested projects or activities include:

"Real life" learning experiences, or experiential learning activities
Competitive sports
Arts, writing, or music-focused activities
Programs that explore jobs, career options or job preparation
Programs that teach self-defense strategies or martial arts
Outdoor experiences, camps, or challenge courses
Classes or groups to help quit smoking or using drugs

Who is eligible to apply?

The Wyoming Community Foundation Youth Advisory Committee is offering student groups and local non-profit organizations (including schools, churches, and community groups with 501(c)(3) non-profit status), an opportunity to apply for grants from a total available of $2,500. Grants will be made with income derived from the Wyoming Community Foundation Youth Fund.

What makes a good grant proposal?

Grant proposals should assist the applying organization to implement a project or program that benefits youth. Proposals developed by youth or with youth involvement in planning are acceptable. The proposed project or program should:

Have clear goals.
Impact a significant number of youth from birth to age 18.
Avoid duplication with other projects and programs in the community.
Address an issue and make a significant difference for youth.

In addition, the applying organization and its participants will not be discriminated against on the basis of, but not limited to, gender, religion, physical disability, sexual orientation, or ethnicity.

When are applications available?

Typically, the Request for Proposals (RFP) is available late December of the year and the proposals are due mid-February. Grant awards are announced the following May.

If you have questions or would like additional information please contact the Youth Program Associate, Cris Kooyer, at Grand Rapids Community Foundation, at 616.454.1751 x118 or email her at .

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

For good. For ever.