Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Grants

Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Grants

Geographic Scope: South Berrien and Cass Counties, Michigan

Overview: The Youth Advisory Council is a youth-led initiative of the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation that empowers local students to learn about philanthropy while supporting programs that benefit their peers. YAC identifies funding priorities based on youth-led needs assessments and allocates grant funding accordingly.

YAC Mission

Empower local students to learn about philanthropy while supporting youth-focused initiatives and programs that benefit their peers.

Priority Funding Areas Identified by YAC

• 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

Eligible Applicants

• Schools
• Libraries
• Youth-serving organizations
• Community nonprofits

How YAC Works

• Student-led needs assessment conducted periodically
• Priorities refined annually through student meetings
• Students review and discuss grant proposals
• Students make funding recommendations

Contact Information

• Jennifer Popielski, YAC Advisor
• Michael Rowland, CEO
• Phone: 269-695-3521
• Email: info@mgcf.org
• Address: 107 W. Front Street, Buchanan, MI 49107