Youth Grant Committee FAQ
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Youthexpand category
- Who is eligible to apply for grants?
Any tax-exempt, nonprofit organization with programs that benefit youth is eligible to apply. Proposals should address specific youth issues such as drug and alcohol abuse, stress, teen pregnancy and other issues. Call the Grand Rapids Community Foundation at 616.454.1751 if you have questions. Proposals should address one of the identified youth needs, be creative and well-defined, and demonstrate broad community impact. An evaluation component and a plan for on-going funding should be included as well.
- When is the proposal deadline?
The YGC considers grant requests annually. Typically, the Request for Proposals (RFP) is available in late December of each year and the proposals are due in mid-February. Grant awards are announced the following May. If you would like information regarding future grant opportunities, you may contact Cris Kooyer at 616.454.1751 or click here to email her. Download the Guidelines
- Where does the grant funding comes from?
The money available for grants comes from income generated by a $1.8 million Youth Fund, which is held in permanent endowment by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation. The Youth Fund was established in 1991 with $1 million in matching funds from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Approximately $45,000 in grants is available annually.
- Who receives the grant awards?
2010 marks the 18th year of the YGC. In the last decade and a half, we have awarded over half of a million dollars to local nonprofits. We particularly like to support programs that are unique, exhibit a great deal of creativity and incorporate youth leadership. View past grant recipients here.
- How can you join YGC?
Membership in YGC is open to any Grand Rapids area high school student interested in serving their community and willing to volunteer their time. More than 200 area students have served on the Committee over the past 10 years, with many of them serving through all four years of high school. Membership applications are available each April and new members are selected in August. Click here to download the application to join the Youth Grant Committee. For more information, please contact Cris Kooyer at 616.454.1751 or click here to email her.