Summer Youth Philanthropy Experience

Advisor Leslie Renzi, far right, leads Youth Philanthropy Council students in a team-building activity in 2023. (Kara Dry Photography)

New Summer ‘Youth Philanthropy Experience’ Opens to Jefferson County Rising Ninth-Grade Students

The Community Foundation’s new summer Youth Philanthropy Experience is set to take off in July with a class of rising freshmen who attend school or reside in Jefferson County. The new weeklong summer program is a chance for students who are entering ninth grade this fall to learn about philanthropy and their community. Ideal students are committed to the full experience and able to attend all sessions.

During this unique summer experience, students will:

Receive a broad introduction to community philanthropy, grantmaking, and hands-on learning about the vital work and missions of local nonprofits.
Attend daily three-hour morning sessions at the Community Foundation and participating Watertown-based nonprofits beginning Monday, July 27, and concluding Friday, July 31.
Be empowered to make a difference in their community through grantmaking and volunteer opportunities.
Meet local leaders, develop debate and critical thinking skills, and collaborate with peers from other Jefferson County schools.
Be entrusted with grant decisions that will allow them to directly impact the quality of life of the area. Grant awards students will make are not limited to youth programs or youth-related initiatives.
Be mentored by community leaders, Foundation staff, and current and past Youth Philanthropy Council members.

Since 2010, the Community Foundation has grown its programs that provide youth leadership opportunities across the region, including the Youth Philanthropy Council and Community Spirit Youth Giving Challenge.

Applications open Wednesday, April 8, and students will be accepted on a rolling basis until the program is full. The application should be completed solely by the student who is applying. Candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted individually.