Youth Empowerment Project Grant Program

The Springfield City Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) Grant Program for FY26 is a local philanthropic initiative coordinated by the Springfield Chapter of the Youth Empowerment Project in partnership with the Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO). This annual program empowers high school juniors and seniors to engage in grantmaking while learning about philanthropy, volunteering, and the impact of nonprofits in their community. For the FY26 cycle, the program is supported by a generous gift from JE Dunn Construction. The grant opportunity is specifically intended for nonprofit organizations and public entities based in Springfield, Missouri, that are working to create or maintain safe and supportive spaces for children and youth in need. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) organizations or IRS-approved entities, such as local governments, school districts, and churches. Projects must serve the Springfield area and align with the overall mission of providing environments that foster security, emotional well-being, and support for at-risk or underserved youth populations. Examples of eligible initiatives include youth drop-in centers in underserved neighborhoods, trauma-informed practices like calm rooms, family resource pop-ups, after-school programming, arts programs for emotional healing, and peer mentorship models. Total funding available is $15,000, and individual awards are capped at $5,000. Only one application per organization is permitted, and all awards are contingent on attending the grant presentation event scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. The application deadline is December 2, 2025, by 11:45 p.m. CT. Final decisions and notifications will be sent in late February or early March of 2026. All grantees are required to complete a final report one year after project completion. Budget submissions must include both an itemized cost breakdown and a description of how funds will be used. Optional supporting documents such as partner letters, bid sheets, or photos can be uploaded with the application. Grantees must agree to nondiscrimination policies that match the Community Foundation of the Ozarks' inclusive standards. Projects must not discriminate based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. Technical assistance is available through Latesa Carter, and grant-specific inquiries can be directed to Rachel Tripp.

Follow character count rules. Focus on safe, supportive youth services. Attach visuals and letters when possible.