Youth Philanthropy Project Grant

The Youth Philanthropy Project Grant, offered by the Whatcom Community Foundation, empowers high school students to become community leaders. By engaging in local issues and grant decision-making, students develop essential skills while addressing youth-related challenges. In 2026, the focus will be on programs that enhance youth protective factors. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and educational institutions, fostering creativity and collaboration for community growth.

Background
Successful proposals will describe the essential work you do in the community, how it involves others in the community who need to be a part of truly successful problem-solving and long-term planning for our community’s future.
We invite creativity and imagination in the preparation of grant requests. We hope the application process is an exploration on how to build a community where everyone thrives. Funding for the competitive grants program comes from the Community Foundation’s endowments, donations, and gifts from designated and donor advised funds.
The Youth Philanthropy Project helps high school students develop personal and professional skills needed by the next generation of community leaders. With staff support, students form a leadership committee to learn about local issues affecting Whatcom County, review grant proposals and make funding decisions.
In 2026, the Youth Philanthropy Project will focus on projects that increase youth protective factors and decrease youth risk factors. Priority will be given to programs that engage youth in program design/delivery.

Eligibility

Unless otherwise noted in the grant round you are applying for, eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with a valid letter from the IRS recognizing its 501(c)3 status, Native American Tribes, religious and educational institutions, and projects with an approved fiscal sponsor. City or County Government requests for non-essential, quality of life, community enhancement projects not typically funded through tax dollars may be eligible.

Ineligibility

City or County Government requests for non-essential, quality of life, community enhancement projects not typically funded through tax dollars may be eligible.Ineligible applicants and activities include:Organizations that discriminate based on gender, religion, sexual orientation or identity, ethnicity, national origin or physical ability
Religious activities (grants will not be made for religious purposes but may be made to faith-based organizations for the non-religious programs offered to the broader community)
Political campaigns
Sponsorships, tickets for benefits, recurring events or annual fundraising campaigns