For nearly 25 years, young people throughout Kent County have been catalysts for change through youth philanthropy. Through Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s Youth Grant Committee, youth from throughout West Michigan learn with one another about how to assess youth-related community issues, engage with their peers and make grants. YGC members combine hands-on service activities with their grantmaking to show appreciation for and to stay connected to our community. During the 2018-2019 year, the YGC recommended $50,000 in grants to 15 local programs that benefit youth.
PHILANTHROPHY
with, for, and by Youth
The YGC is responsible for developing grant recommendations to the Board of Trustees. Funds come from income generated by the Community Foundation’s Youth Fund. This fund resulted from a match grant that the W.K. Kellogg Foundation offered for projects and programs that benefit youth. For every $2 raised for a community’s permanent endowment, Kellogg Foundation would match with $1 for a permanently endowed youth fund, up to $1 million. The Community Foundation received the $1 million Kellogg Foundation grant in 1994 to establish the Youth Fund, which is currently valued at over $1.7 million. YGC members use a needs assessment survey to determine community needs and prioritize their giving. Next, they review grant applications, conduct site visits and hold conversations with program partners. Committee members reside in and around Grand Rapids and attend one of 14 public or private high schools. Any high school-aged youth interested in serving the community and willing to commit their time to volunteer may apply for membership.
PARTNERS in community | 8
YGC member DeUnique, who also serves as the Community Foundation’s youth trustee, said, “I loved absorbing the information around me about things that were significant to the development and growth of the community and how the North Star aligns with these things. Having the opportunity to learn about the backgrounds of different organizations from the Community Foundation’s perspective was an experience that I am proud to say that I have received. There is still more for me to learn, and I hope that this is just the beginning of my relationship with Grand Rapids Community Foundation.” Besides awarding impactful grants, the YGC celebrated other accomplishments. During National Philanthropy Day in November, the Association for Fundraising Professionals West Michigan recognized the YGC with the Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Award. Co-chair Riley, a recent graduate of City High Middle School, was invited to speak at the closing plenary of the Council on Michigan Foundation’s annual conference. Khya, a rising senior at East Kentwood High School, was invited to contribute to the YouthGiving. org blog to share how youth are effecting change in their A.R.L. communities.
“I learned to speak up and advocated for causes I’m passionate about. The networking, organization, teamwork and public speaking skills I developed will continue to impact my life.” DeUnique, 2018-2019 Youth Trustee
Payton, 2018-2019 YGC Co-Chair
Riley, 2018-2019 YGC Co-Chair
“Members of the committee have proven to be smart and kind individuals who continue to support one another. They turned my reserved personality into a more outgoing and passionate one. I gained the confidence I needed in order to voice my opinion, and I loved standing up for projects I believed in.”
“Serving on the YGC gave me a better understanding of the organizations that exist in our community. I will always remember the importance of work being done in the nonprofit sector and the opportunity I have to be part of it.”
