This program supports young people up to age 25 to develop and run projects to improve their communities. Youth Initiative Grants are proudly supported by United Way, GenNext and Central Okanagan Foundation.

Eligibility

These grants are available to young people up to age 25 who are partnering with an organization to create positive change in their local community. The partner organization can be a school, church or charity and youth must reside in either the Central or South Okanagan Similkameen. All applications are assessed by a Youth Initiative Grants Advisory Council (2019 Council pictured at right) who decide which projects are awarded grants.

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How to Apply

The 2020 Youth Initiative Grant application process is now closed. Applications will open again in December 2020. If you have questions about Youth Initiative Grants, please contact Reanne Holden-Amadio at reanne@unitedwaysibc.com or call 250-860-2356.

2020 Grant Recipients

Green Screen, Enactus Okanagan College

Repair of old tech equipment for use by students in need or in Silver Surfers Program

Adaptive Scavenger Hunt, CRIS Adaptive Adventures

Outdoor and adventure event empowering youth with disabilities.

Youth Advisory Council, YMCA Okanagan 

Youth leadership council developing  engagement opportunities for local youth members.

“Project Green Screen focuses on environmental sustainability and repurposing neglected technology. With the involvement of youth from schools in the community, we are able to teach the importance of re-using and recycling technology. The funding received from the Youth Initiative Grant will allow us to refurbish a greater amount of technology. This will further provide more technology for those unable to gain access to the technology they need.” 

Isaac Hossmann, the student project manager of the Green Screen – Enactus Project.

2019 Grant Recipients

YAAC Mental Health Week Campaign, Foundry Kelowna 

  • tool kits for student lead groups at schools

More LGBTQ+ Friends, Etcetera – The Bridge Youth and Family Services

  • marketing of the Etcetera Group and participation in Pride week

Mural Project, Foundry Penticton, One Sky Community Resources

  • Mural Project for Youth Centre / Foundry building

Green Screen, Enactus Okanagan College

  • Repair of old tech equipment for use by students in need or in Silver Surfers Program

Silver Surfers, Enactus Okanagan College

  • Education for seniors on common technology, working with middle school students

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