Youth IN Philanthropy

The Youth in Philanthropy program engages high school students in philanthropic “giving” through educational and hands-on activities. During the 2023-2024 school year, 15 school districts across the Central Susquehanna region participated.

“Youth in Philanthropy has opened my eyes to a bigger world. People need help in many ways, and this program has given me the opportunity to offer my time and talents to help them. Youth in Philanthropy taught me about the grant process, and how a small amount of money can have a big impact. It feels great to give back to the community—I am glad I can call myself a philanthropist.” (Youth in Philanthropy Student)

Your support of Youth in Philanthropy makes an impact on the lives of people in your community. This story is just one example of the power of giving happening now because of the generosity of our donors.

In partnership with faculty liaisons at local school districts, high school students volunteer to form Youth in Philanthropy groups. Throughout the year, each group researches school-based and community needs and strengths, while exercising their leadership and decision-making skills. Contributions from generous community members allow each group to award up to $5,000 annually in grants to nonprofit organizations for youth programs. Students create a plan to survey their community and develop criteria to prioritize their grant awards.

Youth in Philanthropy meets twice per academic year for day-long workshops hosted by the Community Giving Foundation. In addition, school groups meet monthly. To celebrate community impact, the program hosts a grant presentation ceremony annually in April.

Service area: Youth in Philanthropy provides high school students with an opportunity to learn about philanthropy and participate in the grantmaking process. Students from school districts across the region form teams that research community needs and strengths as they relate to youth. Each team develops a portfolio for their grant investments that they determine will provide results measured in changed lives

In 2023/2024, 82 grants totaling $75,000 were awarded by Youth in Philanthropy groups to support youth-focused community needs.

• Benton Area High School
• Berwick Area High School
• Bloomsburg Area High School
• Central Columbia High School
• Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit
• Columbia-Montour AVTS
• Danville Area High School
• Lewisburg Area High School
• Line Mountain High School
• Midd-West High School
• Mifflinburg Area High School
• Millville Area High School
• Milton Area High School
• Northwest Area High School
• Selinsgrove Area High School
• Shamokin Area High School
• Shikellamy High School
• Warrior Run High School