MetroWest Youth In Philanthropy Program Accepting Applications

SUDBURY, MA — A local nonprofit that helps nonprofits is opening up its fall Youth in Philanthropy session to applicants. The Foundation for MetroWest runs the program to get youth interested in working in the nonprofit sector.

Here's more from a Foundation for MetroWest press release:

COVID-19 has proven to us that now more than ever, philanthropic efforts throughout our local communities are essential to the quality of life for our neighbors. The Foundation for MetroWest is currently accepting applications for Youth in Philanthropy (YIP), a unique experiential learning program that will take place this coming Fall (September-January) in Hopkinton, Natick, Sudbury and Southborough. High School students who live or learn in MetroWest communities are eligible and welcome to apply.

YIP provides participants the knowledge to become engaged and informed civic leaders in the MetroWest community by learning the importance of philanthropy and the needs that exist in our own backyards, many of which have been exacerbated under the current pandemic. The program also helps local youth develop valuable 21st century skills, including critical thinking, understanding budgets, public speaking, consensus building, and case-making.

Ultimately, each group of 20 students works together to evaluate grant applications and distribute funds to worthy nonprofits serving youth in our communities.

“The Youth in Philanthropy program is truly a beneficial and important program. It has not only changed my life but expanded my horizon and fostered a lifelong commitment to civic service. It has taught us, the new generation, the importance of collaboration, giving back, and the applications of these factors in our futures,” said Julia C., a YIP Sudbury alumna.

Now, more than ever, youth involvement in philanthropy is important. It is the community nonprofits, including Foundation partners, that make the most impact during uncertain times. YIP gives young people the opportunity to provide support while fostering a deep understanding and connection to community and service. For those who are interested in making a difference today and in the future, the Foundation for MetroWest encourages students to submit their applications, which can be found at www.yipmetrowest.org/students, as soon as possible. The priority deadline is Friday, June 5. Students who submit their applications by June 5 will be provided a program decision by Friday, June 19. Students who apply after June 5th will receive an admission decision on a rolling basis, as program space allows. Dates, times, and meeting locations vary by program.

Since launching in 1997, the Foundation for MetroWest’s Youth in Philanthropy program has educated over 2,000 students who have granted over $1.2 million to over 200 MetroWest youth development organizations. The Foundation for MetroWest is proud to be running one of the largest youth philanthropy education programs in the country. For more information about the Youth in Philanthropy program, visit www.yipmetrowest.org.