Idaho Youth in Philanthropy Project to empower rural students

The Idaho Community Foundation announced Tuesday it has launched the Idaho Youth in Philanthropy Project, a program empowering rural high school students to become future leaders in philanthropy.

This hands-on leadership program aims to prepare students in smaller communities to become future leaders in philanthropy by engaging them in the grantmaking process and supporting nonprofits that address critical local needs.

High schools in rural Idaho are invited to apply, with priority given to communities with populations under 30,000 to ensure support reaches areas with limited access to nonprofit resources.

Six high school groups will be selected to participate, with each group given the opportunity to distribute $5,000 to local nonprofits. Through the Youth in Philanthropy Project, students will learn about nonprofit operations, the role of philanthropy in their communities and how to evaluate grant applications — all while experiencing the power of giving back.

“This project aims to equip Idaho’s rural youth with skills in leadership, critical thinking, and collaboration,” Idaho Community Foundation Vice President for Impact and Nonprofit Center Kevin Bailey said in the news release. “By engaging in real-world philanthropy, these students will gain valuable experience in decision-making and foster a lifelong commitment to their communities.”

Interested schools can apply by Dec. 6 through the application linked at idahocf.org.

Selected schools will be announced in early 2025, with student groups engaging in the grantmaking process during the spring semester.