A few weeks ago, the Multnomah Athletic Foundation’s Youth Grant Initiative (YGI) cohort reached an inspiring milestone: after months of thoughtful deliberation and collaboration, they awarded $2,500 grants to two exceptional nonprofits—Friends of Baseball and Girls on the Run.
Over the course of six weeks, this dedicated cohort of students embarked on a journey to learn the fundamentals of philanthropy. They explored what it means to give intentionally, examined the needs of their community, and developed skills in collaboration, critical thinking, and decision-making. The program challenged them to evaluate 13 nonprofit organizations, each doing impactful work in the community, and decide how to grant the $5,000 they were allotted.
This process wasn’t just about reviewing applications—it was about engaging deeply with the mission and values of each organization, understanding how funds could create meaningful change, and coming to a consensus as a team. These young philanthropists demonstrated maturity and compassion as they weighed their options, ultimately selecting Friends of Baseball and Girls on the Run for their outstanding contributions to youth sports and wellness.
With confidence, the students shared their journey, explaining how they evaluated applications, and assessed community impact. The excitement in the room was palpable as Friends of Baseball and Girls on the Run accepted their grants, highlighting the tangible impact of this unique program.
Join Us in 2025!
If you know a student entering 7th or 8th grade in Portland next fall, encourage them to apply for YGI! This one-of-a-kind opportunity is perfect for kids who are curious about philanthropy, community impact, and leadership. Applications for the next cohort will open in the spring of 2025. Stay tuned for updates—we can’t wait to meet the next group of changemakers!
Learn more – https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/grants/youth-grant-initiative/