Conscious Kids Grant Program

The Conscious Kids grant, administered through Wells Fargo Trust Philanthropic Services Private Foundations, is designed to provide crucial support to at-risk children and young adults, with a strong emphasis on educational advancement and general life improvement. The foundation honors the legacy of Marlee-Jo Jacobson, a former commodities exchange professional who strongly believed in equitable opportunities for all children, especially those facing adversity. Jacobson’s vision was to ensure access not only to academic education but also to cultural and artistic learning that fosters holistic development in disadvantaged youth. The primary goal of the Conscious Kids grant program is to empower underserved communities by funding organizations that serve children in foster care, those experiencing homelessness, and those with physical or developmental disabilities. The grant particularly supports efforts that include tutoring, internships, tuition assistance, and basic living services. There is also a secondary focus on life enhancement opportunities such as summer camps and arts education programs—especially those that integrate cultural enrichment activities like dance, music, and visual arts with outreach to at-risk populations. Grants are limited to organizations serving specific counties in New York and New Jersey. Eligible counties in New York include Manhattan, Richmond (Staten Island), Kings (Brooklyn), Bronx, and Queens. In New Jersey, eligible counties are Essex, Monmouth, Union, Middlesex, and Morris. The grant is not available nationwide and strictly adheres to these geographic limitations. Funding is primarily provided for programmatic support, although limited funding is also available for general operating expenses and capital needs. The average grant amount ranges between $10,000 and $20,000, with a total annual funding allocation of approximately $100,000 distributed across an average of five grantees per year. All applicant organizations must have 501(c)(3) nonprofit status under the Internal Revenue Code to be eligible for funding consideration. Applications are accepted throughout the year but must be submitted by June 15 to be reviewed during the foundation’s annual grant meeting, which takes place in September. Upon submission, applicants will receive an automated email confirmation. If awarded, grantees may be asked to submit periodic progress reports and final reports to document the outcomes and effectiveness of the funded programs. For technical support or inquiries regarding the grant process, applicants can contact Wells Fargo at 1-888-235-4351 or via email at [email protected]. Further information on Wells Fargo’s broader philanthropic efforts can be found on their Philanthropy and Community Impact page, while individual scholarship seekers are directed to visit csascholars.org for educational funding opportunities.