The Youth Leadership Fund was established by Sally and Rick Botzler following their service as Peace Corps volunteers in Mexico from 2009 to 2011. Their experience observing Ecoclub youth leadership programs inspired them to collaborate with the McKinleyville Union School District to create the Bilingual McKinleyville Ecoclub. This initiative emphasizes community and environmental responsibility and sustainability through youth-driven projects. The Fund is now administered to support regional K–12 youth leadership development projects, with a strong focus on environmental stewardship, sustainability, and community involvement.
The primary purpose of the Youth Leadership Fund is to encourage and support youth-centered projects that cultivate leadership skills and active civic participation. Eligible projects must demonstrate measurable outcomes in three core areas: environmental impact, community benefit, and youth leadership development. These outcomes should be clearly defined and supported with examples and evaluation metrics.
Applicants are encouraged to address the needs of historically underserved, marginalized, and oppressed communities. The Fund values cultural responsiveness and inclusivity, recognizing that leadership development can vary based on race, culture, and other contextual factors. Collaborations with other organizations and community partners are welcomed, and examples of past successful partnerships or projects are encouraged to be included in the application.
Grants awarded from the Fund are capped at $1,500. Proposals should reflect how funds will be used effectively within this limit. The grant supports a variety of youth-led or youth-focused initiatives that align with the stated priorities. The application process includes submitting a proposal that outlines the project, objectives, measurable outcomes, timeline, and budget. A completed budget worksheet must also be uploaded with the application.
Applications must be submitted at least 6 to 8 weeks prior to the intended start date of the program or project. Notifications of funding decisions are typically sent out within that 6–8 week window after submission. The Fund does not specify a recurring or rolling application period, so timing considerations must be carefully planned by the applicants.
Highlight how the program supports underserved or marginalized youth; include measurable outcomes in youth leadership, community impact, and environmental responsibility; demonstrate past success or collaborations.
