In Episode 20, Katie Reusch from YSA Youth Service America and Libby explores the transformative power of grants for youth. Since it evolved from the Roosevelt Centennial Youth Project in 1986, YSA has been at the forefront of engaging young individuals in impactful projects. Discover how YSA’s grants support young changemakers and gain insights into what happens after a grant is submitted. Learn about these grants’ essential role in empowering youth and making a real difference in communities nationwide.
Empowering Youth Through Service
YSA Youth Service America engages young individuals in meaningful projects as volunteers and leaders. Their initiatives are built around global and national days of service, such as Global Youth Service Day, 9/11 Day, and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. These days serve as significant starting points for youth, allowing them to reflect on historical events and their impact while actively contributing to their communities. Learning about historical events like 9/11 and MLK Day encourages youth to understand their historical context and apply those lessons to contemporary issues.
Over the past decade, YSA has provided over $5.8 million in grants to support youth-led projects. Their programs offer financial support and training, resources, and recognition to help young people succeed. YSA’s focus is on promoting Awareness, Service, Advocacy, and Philanthropy (ASAP), which encourages young people to tackle important social and environmental issues.
What Are Grants for Youth?
YSA Youth Service America offers grants to individual youth and organizations. Specific grants focus on issues like childhood hunger for youth-led projects. Schools and organizations can also apply, and the eligibility criteria are flexible, including religious-affiliated institutions and governmental entities.
GrantWatch Plays a Part
GrantWatch has played a pivotal role in amplifying YSA’s grant opportunities. Katie acknowledges the platform’s impact in reaching a broader audience, making it easier for schools, organizations, and youth nationwide to access and apply for grants. The partnership highlights the synergy between grant-making organizations and platforms facilitating grant applications.
The Future of Youth Development Programs
The conversation concludes with reaffirming the importance of supporting youth engagement through grants. Katie and Libby express a shared vision for increasing awareness and participation in these impactful programs. With the support of platforms like GrantWatch, YSA Youth Service America continues to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders.
Visit GrantWatch for more information on available grants and to explore opportunities. Stay tuned to GrantTalk for insights and updates on grant opportunities and how they can support your community initiatives.
About GrantWatch
With over 8,500 grants currently available, GrantWatch.com is the leading grant listing directory. Upgrade to a MemberPlus+ subscription to view the full grant details, including eligibility criteria and application information. For more information, you can also visit the GrantWatch FAQ page. Click here to see the great value of all 20 of the top GrantWatch features. Watch the latest episode of GrantTalk, powered by GrantWatch, with host Libby Hikind. You don’t want to miss this. Visit us on YouTube weekly. Get your copy of The Queen of Grants: From Teacher to Grant Writer to CEO, by Libby Hikind.
