Youth Action Project Mini-Grant Program

The Youth Action Project Mini-Grant Program is administered by the North Valley Community Foundation through its Youth Advisory Council. This initiative empowers young leaders by involving them directly in philanthropy and community development. The Youth Advisory Council is composed of young individuals who bring their unique perspectives to youth-focused programming and funding decisions. Through this program, the foundation aims to uplift grassroots efforts that foster positive change and address the needs of young people. The initiative reflects the foundation’s broader mission to strengthen communities by investing in local solutions that promote well-being and opportunity. The purpose of the Youth Action Project Mini-Grant Program is to support projects that enhance youth mental health, wellness, and social connectedness in Butte County, California. By providing financial resources to community-based organizations and youth-led initiatives, the program seeks to encourage innovative and impactful programming. The grants prioritize projects that create safe, inclusive environments and address the emotional and social needs of young people. The program emphasizes measurable outcomes and community relevance, ensuring that funded initiatives produce tangible benefits for youth. This mini-grant program will award a total of $20,000, with individual grants ranging from $500 to $1,500. Funding is intended for creative and community-driven initiatives such as peer support groups, creative arts workshops, outdoor recreation programs, youth-led community service projects, mental health awareness campaigns, skill-building workshops, and safe social gatherings. Grant funds may be used for program supplies, space rentals, facilitation costs, transportation, outreach, and other direct program expenses. However, funds may not be used for ongoing staff salaries, indirect or overhead costs, capital improvements exceeding specified limits, or activities conducted outside Butte County. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, school-based programs and clubs, youth-led community groups with adult advisors or fiscal sponsors, and informal community groups or individuals working under fiscal sponsorship. Projects must primarily serve youth ages 10 to 18 in Butte County and must be completed within one year of receiving funding. Programs must be inclusive, non-discriminatory, and accessible to all youth regardless of background, ability, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or religious belief. Applications are submitted through the North Valley Community Foundation’s online grant portal. Applicants are required to provide organizational information, a project description, measurable outcomes, a simple budget, and proof of nonprofit status or fiscal sponsorship. The application must also outline the anticipated impact on youth and demonstrate alignment with the program’s goals. All required materials must be completed and uploaded through the designated portal to be considered for funding. Proposals are reviewed and selected by members of the Youth Advisory Council. Applications are evaluated based on Youth Impact, Clarity and Feasibility, Measurable Outcomes, and Community Need. Funding decisions prioritize projects that demonstrate strong potential for meaningful and measurable impact. Successful applicants must sign a grant agreement, comply with reporting requirements, and submit progress and financial reports within one year of receiving funds. The application period opens on April 1, 2026, and closes on April 30, 2026. Awards are distributed following approval and execution of grant agreements. For questions regarding the program or application process, applicants may contact the North Valley Community Foundation grants team. Through this initiative, the foundation seeks to empower youth and strengthen community connections by investing in innovative, youth-driven solutions.

Emphasize measurable outcomes, demonstrate strong youth impact, align with community needs, and present a clear and feasible project plan.