15 Forever Fund

15 Forever is a youth-led grantmaking initiative established in 2006 by Community Foundation Boulder County. The program was launched to promote civic engagement, philanthropy, and leadership among youth in Boulder County, Colorado. Over the years, 15 Forever has empowered local high school students to play a central role in community development by providing them with the tools to assess local needs, raise funds, and distribute grants. In collaboration with YouthRoots, a national nonprofit that supports youth philanthropy, 15 Forever helps participants develop leadership, financial literacy, and problem-solving skills through direct involvement in the grantmaking process. The program operates as a partnership between Community Foundation Boulder County and YouthRoots. Youth participants engage in a multi-step learning process that includes understanding the nonprofit sector, identifying community needs, fundraising, and evaluating grant applications. With over $250,000 awarded since its inception, 15 Forever exemplifies a commitment to cultivating a new generation of philanthropists dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in their communities. The 2026 15 Forever Fund grant cycle opens on March 16, 2026, and will close on April 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Mountain Time. During this period, eligible organizations can submit applications for consideration. Grantees will be announced in late May 2026. No pre-application steps such as letters of intent or concept papers are required. The application materials and the official Request for Proposal (RFP) will be made available on the foundation’s website once the submission window opens. Eligible applicants must be IRS-designated 501(c)(3) public charities, public entities, or governmental organizations. Entities without 501(c)(3) status may apply with a fiscal sponsor. However, private non-operating foundations are not eligible. Additionally, activities supported by 15 Forever grants must benefit people in Boulder County, Colorado. The foundation specifically excludes funding for programs that promote religious doctrine and does not accept unsolicited proposals outside the grant cycle. Applicants are expected to use awarded funds only for the charitable and educational purposes outlined in their proposals and consistent with their tax-exempt missions. The foundation emphasizes that applications must align with the priorities identified by the youth board during the evaluation process. Though specific funding amounts per grant are not disclosed, the program's total historical grantmaking suggests modest but meaningful awards intended to support local impact. For more information or inquiries, prospective applicants may contact the foundation via email at [email protected] or by phone at 303-442-0436. The Community Foundation Boulder County is located at 1123 Spruce Street, Boulder, CO 80302. The foundation's EIN is 84-1171836. The fund does not accept rolling applications, and all materials must be submitted by the closing date.