The Inland Empire Community Foundation is seeking applications for its Youth Grantmakers Fund 2021 to provide financial support for projects, programs and/or activities that serve youth in such areas as Health and Human Services, Youth and Families, and Education.

Objectives

• Involve youth in the development and implementation of the project, program and/or activity
• Increase community involvement and volunteerism among youth
• Promote values of personal responsibility in youth
• Provide an avenue for internal exploration and personal empowerment of youth
• Respect and promote diversity
• Support intervention and prevention of social problems
• Support and encourage youth creativity
• Develop civic and public pride in youth

Program Interest Areas

Grant proposals will be accepted that address issues important to youth. Program interest areas are broad based and may include areas of academic preparation, cultural inclusion, awareness and prevention, as well as indirect and direct services that will help youth develop positive assets for strong social, mental and academic growth. Areas of specific interest to Youth Grantmakers as identified through a needs assessment include:

• Mental Health;
• College & Future Plans;
• Alcohol & Drug Use;
• Bullying;
• Immigration Issues;
• Race Relations; and
• Healthcare Accessibility.

Funding Priorities

• The Youth Grantmakers Fund is a responsive grantmaking opportunity designed to empower the Youth Grantmaker members to review, score and recommend grant proposals that provide meaningful impact in the community.
• Submission of proposal that include activities that involve youth to address community need through involvement in arts (dance, drama, creative arts, music writing etc.), advocacy programs, educational classes, mentoring /tutoring, outdoor experiences, “real-life” learning experiences, service learning and treatment services are encouraged.

Funding Information

• Applicants may request amounts in the following range: $1,000 to $2,500. The maximum grant award is $2,500.
• The grant period is up to one year. Programs may start as early as May 1, 2021 and must end no later than April 30, 2022.

Eligibility Criteria

• Nonprofit, public benefit corporations with evidence of tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and not classified as a private foundation. Educational institutions are eligible to apply.
• Nonprofit agencies that serve youth residing in the Coachella Valley area.
• Agencies that operate so that they do not discriminate in the hiring of staff or in providing services on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin or disability.

For more information, visit Youth Grantmakers Fund.