Youth Advisory Council Accepting Grant Applications

Dear Community Partners,

At a recent Youth Advisory Council (YAC) meeting, students reviewed and discussed priorities for the upcoming February grant cycle. These priorities are the result of a youth-led needs assessment conducted two years ago and were further refined during our January meeting.

Based on this process, YAC has identified several focus areas that will receive priority consideration during the February grant cycle. While many of these needs emerged from school and classroom settings, they reflect broader youth needs across our communities. Schools, libraries, youth-serving organizations, and community nonprofits are encouraged to consider how their programs may align with these priorities.

Priority Funding Areas Identified by YAC Include:

Youth Well-Being, Mental Health & Support:

• Safe, calming spaces and dedicated break time for youth to decompress

• Access to counselors, therapy supports, and trusted adults

• Expert speakers and workshops focused on youth wellness

Enrichment, Engagement & Belonging:

• Field trips and experiential learning opportunities

• Clubs, extracurriculars, and arts or music programs

• Gardening, outdoor learning, and nature-based programming

Basic Needs, Skill-Building & Opportunity:

• Supportive resources such as sensory tools or fidget items

• Free snacks or basic needs assistance

These priorities will help guide YAC’s funding decisions, though proposals outside these areas may still be considered. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how their project supports youth well-being, connection, and opportunity.

The deadline to apply for the February grant cycle is February 1.

If you have questions or would like to discuss potential project ideas, please feel free to reach out to Jennifer Popielski, YAC Advisor or Michael Rowland, CEO.

We look forward to partnering with organizations that are committed to supporting young people across our region.