Orange County, New York, is offering a funding opportunity to support youth team sports programs through a grant administered by the Orange County Youth Bureau (OCYB). This initiative, announced by County Executive Steve Neuhaus, will allocate over $223,000 in funding provided by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services. The grant is designed to support nonprofit organizations that operate youth team sports programs for residents under the age of 18 and align with the goals outlined in the official Request for Proposals (RFP).
The program aims to promote youth development through team sports, which are recognized for building confidence, leadership, and healthy lifestyles among young people. County Executive Neuhaus emphasized the value of such programs in fostering positive growth, while OCYB Director Rachel Wilson highlighted their role in teaching essential life skills such as teamwork and resilience.
Eligible applicants include secular and faith-based nonprofit organizations that operate within Orange County, as well as organizational partnerships. Importantly, organizations that have not previously received Youth Bureau funding are also encouraged to apply. The grant is intended to support programming that occurs between November 6, 2025, and September 30, 2026.
Interested organizations must submit their proposals directly to the Orange County Department of General Services, not to the Youth Bureau. All communications and inquiries regarding the grant must also be directed in writing to the Department of General Services, either via email at generalservices@orangecountygov.com or by fax at (845) 378-2365. Proposals must be received no later than 4:00 p.m. EDT on Thursday, October 2, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.
The full RFP, along with the document “Questions and Resources for Orange County Youth Bureau YOUTH TEAM SPORTS RFP YB01-25,” which provides definitions and eligible expense guidelines, is available on the OCYB website under the “Funding and Forms” tab and on the Empire State Bid System website. For general media inquiries, Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to the County Executive and Director of Public Information and Media Relations, can be contacted at 845-291-2700 or presscontact@orangecountygov.com.
Submit applications directly to the Department of General Services, not the Youth Bureau. Review the accompanying "Questions and Resources" document for guidance on definitions and allowable expenses.
