The Norwich Youth Grants, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, support programs that foster the development of economically and socially disadvantaged youth in Norwich. These grants are funded by legacy gifts and several dedicated funds, including those of Grace & Lewis Sears, Jeannette Frisbie, the John E. and Elizabeth M. Martin Fund, and the Hargus Family Fund. The program focuses on enhancing opportunities and services that empower youth to succeed.
Priority is given to initiatives that improve early childhood education and intervention services, promote mentoring relationships with caring adults, and provide access to programs that enhance mental and physical health, especially for disconnected youth. Grants also support experiential learning opportunities in science, literacy, arts, and culture, as well as initiatives promoting post-secondary education access, job readiness, youth-led social change, and the elevation of youth voices in program planning.
Programs eligible for funding must preferably be offered by Norwich-based organizations and incorporate collaborative, evidence-based approaches. Proposals should seek to eliminate racism and societal inequities, engage youth and their families in the planning process, and demonstrate measurable outcomes that promote long-term, positive change. Applications are evaluated on their ability to align with these goals and impact the community effectively.
Eligible applicants may request up to $15,000, though most awards are below the maximum amount. Organizations applying for the first time or proposing new programs are required to consult with the foundation before submitting an application. Interested applicants should contact Program Officer Deb Battit at deb@cfect.org or 860-442-3572 to discuss their proposal and eligibility.
The application period opens on November 1, 2024, and closes on January 10, 2025. Notifications of grant awards will be made in early spring. Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the foundation’s General Eligibility Criteria for Grants and to prepare proposals that align closely with the program’s priorities to maximize their chances of receiving funding.
