Aurora Launches Grant To Expand After-School Youth Programming

Local organizations can apply for the grant to enhance after-school programming, purchase equipment or receive a portable soccer field.

By Emily Rosca, Patch Staff

Aug 3, 2026 10:25 AM CDT

AURORA, IL — Aurora's Youth Services Division is launching a new $206,000 grant to enhance existing after-school programs and initiatives across the city, officials announced Monday.

The Youth Programs Enhancement Grant includes $166,000 for after-school programming, equipment purchase grant and programming scholarships combined as well as $40,000 for portable soccer fields. Individual organizations may receive up to $20,000 to enhance youth engagement and existing programming, not fund new programs.

The grant is funded entirely by donations collected during the city's annual Festival of Lights at Phillips Park between 2021 and 2025.

Officials said this is a one-time opportunity for local nonprofits and specific taxing bodies to enhance their programming.

Established nonprofits that have continuously provided services in Aurora — "with demonstrated outcomes, local partnerships, and the capacity to manage a grant" — are encouraged to apply for the after-school programming portion of the grant. Taxing bodies, considered libraries, park districts and local townships, can apply if they provide direct youth programming themselves.

Both after-school programming and equipment purchase portions of the grant must serve a group that consists of at least 51 percent Aurora residents, officials said.

Only Aurora-based schools and park districts can apply for the portable soccer field and must submit a formal letter of intent to be considered, officials said. The equipment must be used for Aurora residents and property within the city.

The grant's application period runs Aug. 3-31. All applications and supporting documentation should be emailed to youthservdiv@aurora.il.us by 5 p.m. on the final day of the month. Staff will review materials and prepare recommendations in September, with the City Council set to vote on finalized grant agreements in October.

The Youth Services Division will host a virtual application workshop from 2-3 p.m. Aug. 11. Grant-specific office hours are scheduled for 2-4 p.m. Tuesdays by calling 630-256-3416.