Funding Amount

$5,000 (winner); $500 (finalists)

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Oakland Youth Poet Laureate Program Scholarship

Funder: Friends of the Oakland Public Library

Geographic Scope: Oakland, CA

Program Focus: Poetry, youth literary arts, recognition of young writers

Eligibility:

  • Oakland writers aged 13-18

  • Open to high school students
  • Award Details:

  • Winner scholarship: $5,000 for college

  • Finalist prizes: $500 each (typically 8-9 finalists)

  • Winner receives title of Oakland Youth Poet Laureate and represents Oakland community through poetry, media, and public appearances throughout tenure
  • Background: The Oakland Youth Poet Laureate (OYPL) program has been celebrating the voices of young poets for thirteen years. It is managed by Oakland Public Library Teen Services with support from a coalition of partner agencies including Chapter 510, Write-to-Read, Youth Speaks, and Alameda County Library.

    Program Goals: Foster literacy through poetry; provide young writers with opportunities for growth and recognition; amplify diverse and powerful voices of Oakland's youth

    Contact Information:

  • Oakland Public Library Teen Services

  • Website: fopl.org

  • Phone: (510) 444-0473
  • How to Apply

    Application Process

    Applications are accepted annually from Oakland youth aged 13-18. Specific application procedures, deadlines, and submission requirements are managed by Oakland Public Library Teen Services. Contact OPL directly for detailed application information.

    Selection Process:

  • Submissions are reviewed

  • Finalists compete in a live event

  • Winner is named at culminating live event
  • Recent Example: 2024 winner Ella Gordon was selected from 9 finalists at a live event held June 7, 2024.

    Focus Areas & Funding Uses

    Fields of Work

    creative-writingyouth-programsyouth-services

    Categories

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