The ALL RISE Mini-Grant Program, spearheaded by the Aron Judge ALL RISE Foundation, is designed to support projects and programs that align with the foundation's core mission: providing encouragement, direction, and support to children, youth, and their families. This initiative reflects the foundation's belief that robust community systems, alongside school and family, are crucial for the holistic development of young individuals. The program has expanded its reach to include Bronx County, NY, and Fresno County, and San Joaquin County, CA, demonstrating a strategic effort to impact communities where the need for such support is significant and to broaden the foundation's overall influence.
The program targets children, youth, and their families within the specified counties, particularly those facing difficult circumstances related to health, finances, housing, or family instability. Impact goals center on fostering positive development through various avenues, ultimately aiming to improve the well-being and future prospects of these beneficiaries. The foundation's theory of change posits that by investing in programs that build essential life skills, promote positive character traits, and encourage community engagement, they can create lasting, beneficial changes in the lives of young people and their families.
The ALL RISE Mini-Grant Program prioritizes several key areas. These include Youth Leadership Development, focusing on skills like time management, public speaking, accountability, and collaboration. Youth Citizenship and Character Development is another core focus, emphasizing responsibility, positive attitude, honesty, respect, and integrity. Additionally, the program supports Health and Well-Being, encompassing both physical and mental health, with a specific focus on children and youth experiencing difficult circumstances. School Activities, such as assemblies and academic recognition, and Community Involvement, including neighborhood improvement projects and local government participation, are also vital areas of interest.
Expected outcomes for the mini-grants are measurable and tied to the program's priorities. For Youth Leadership Development, outcomes would include improved time management, public speaking proficiency, and teamwork skills among participants. In Citizenship and Character Development, success would be measured by increased responsibility, positive attitudes, and demonstrations of respect and integrity. Health and Well-Being initiatives aim for improved behavior and health, as well as increased family involvement with schools. For School Activities, outcomes include improved school culture and climate, and enhanced academic achievement and attendance. Community Involvement projects would see tangible improvements in neighborhoods and increased civic engagement. The foundation awards one $2,500 Mini-Grant in each county three times annually, allowing for consistent support and evaluation of these outcomes.
