The North Carolina Department of Administration Council for Women & Youth Involvement is accepting mini grant applications through its State Youth Council program.

Youth Councils are active across the state, enabling students to enhance their communities while helping their peers. The annual mini grant program specifically targets youth, particularly high school students in ninth through 12th grade, giving Youth Council members an opportunity to help local peers establish leadership skills in project development, management and communication. 

NC Department of Administration Secretary Machelle Sanders said the program is essential for a better North Carolina.

“It is critical that we invest in our youth to help prepare them for the jobs of today and tomorrow,” she said. “The mini grants program helps to build and improve our communities as well as the skills necessary for our youth to have a successful future.” 

The application is open to youth councils, local government, private and nonprofit agencies interested in developing innovative youth programs. This year, State Youth Council will award a total of $6,500 to deserving organizations and agencies. Mini grants will range from $100 to $500.

To be eligible, applications must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2018. 

The State Youth Councils will screen applications during the Mini-Grant Conference in High Point, North Carolina on Nov. 16-18. The Youth Advisory Council will also review applications before grants are awarded.

Examples of projects from past mini grant recipients include: a health program to educate youth on how to make better decisions regarding wellness, acquisition of exercise equipment and a partnership with an animal shelter to build pens for dog shelters. However, the following does not qualify for funding: food, entertainment, travel and salaries. 

For application and additional information, people may contact the NC Council for Women & Youth Involvement Office, State Youth Council Coordinator Candace Dudley at 919-807-4407.

– Submitted article