Youth and Philanthropy (YAP) - High School Grant Program

YAP empowers local 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students to take an active role in their community and understand the role of philanthropy in their lives. Student participants act as grant reviewers to assess community needs and disperse $25,000 annually to organizations addressing those needs.

Key Details:

• Target Students: 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students from all school districts in Tompkins County
• Geographic Scope: Tompkins County, New York
• Total Annual Awards: $25,000 distributed to community organizations
• Program Since: 1999
• Participation to Date: Over 200 students from every school district in Tompkins County have participated

Student Learning Outcomes:

• Consensus building skills
• Critical thinking development
• Community needs assessment
• Interview techniques
• Understanding of philanthropy
• Leadership and civic engagement

Funding Source: Grants are funded by a generous donation from Triad Foundation

Program Leadership: Rebekah Hinton, Director of Community Impact at United Way of Tompkins County

Contact:

• Rebekah Hinton, Director of Community Impact
• Email: rhinton@uwtc.org
• Phone: (607) 272-6286
• Address: 313 N. Aurora St, Ithaca, NY 14850

Student Registration and Participation

Fall 2026 Schedule:

• Session 1: Monday, October 27, 5:15-7:30 PM
• Session 2: Wednesday, October 29, 5:15-7:30 PM
• Session 3: Monday, November 3, 5:15-7:30 PM
• Session 4: Wednesday, November 5, 5:15-7:30 PM
• Session 5: Monday, November 10, 5:15-7:30 PM
• Session 6: Wednesday, November 12, 5:15-7:30 PM
• Session 7: Monday, November 17, 5:15-7:30 PM
• Session 8: Wednesday, November 19, 5:15-7:30 PM
• Award Ceremony: Thursday, December 4, 4:30-6:30 PM (mandatory, in-person)

Location: United Way Office at 313 N. Aurora St, Ithaca, NY (hybrid Zoom option available for sessions)

Registration Requirements:

1. Complete registration form and required paperwork prior to first session
2. Submit form using the Youth and Philanthropy Student Registration Form link
3. All required forms must be submitted before attending first session

Program Expectations:

• Consistent attendance required at all sessions
• Dinner provided at every session
• Hybrid participation (Zoom) accommodated for sessions
• Award Ceremony attendance is mandatory and must be in-person

Eligibility:

• Currently enrolled 10th, 11th, or 12th grade students
• Open to students with diverse passions, backgrounds, and skill sets
• No prerequisite experience required