Engaging youth as decision-makers

Involving youth in philanthropy is a conscious decision made by WCF to engage youth as decision-makers.  This includes decisions about grant making priorities, what organizations to support, the appropriate amount of funding, and how to evaluate the results of the grant.  Winona Community Foundations Youth In Philanthropy (YIP) program acknowledges the need to bring adults and youth together to understand the needs of others. 

Bluffview Montessori 7th & 8th Grade and Winona Area Catholic Schools 3rd grade students completed their roles as decision-makers awarding six grants to area non-profits.  Those involved in YIP point out the enthusiasm, fresh outlook, and determination that many young people bring. The students and teachers take the responsibilities seriously.   

YIP aims to engage youth in the "real" action of community building.  This dynamic process fosters healthy relationships across generations with reciprocal commitments to share information, experience and resources.  The resulting networks establish a solid sense of community membership, community pride and trust between youth and adults. 

Youth in philanthropy will increase youth’s knowledge of how the community works, deepen their social skills, ignite their passion for giving and cultivate their capacity to make a difference.  By providing quality experiences for youth, YIP will inspire them to develop the skills, knowledge, and attitudes that will result in the development of each youths sense of "Community" and to be our future leaders.

2009 Youth In Philanthropy Grants Totaling $3000

Winona ORC: A backpack Vacuum for the janitorial services that provides jobs to ORC workers with disabilities. $375

Winona Friendship Center: Support towards replacing out of date computers in the learning center.  $525

Winona Education Association: Caroling with the community “Caroling by Candlelight” will provide a night for community to celebrate Christmas for all Winonans present and those who will listen on the radio.$300

Garvin Brook Disaster Flood Relief: Support in the rebuilding of ball fields for a program that accommodates various age groups that was lost in the flood. $650

Boy Scouts: Replacing camping equipment that was old rusty and unsafe to use. $550

Winona DAC: Equipment including a sewing machine for crafts and teaching life skills, a DVD for movies, and additional craft supplies. $600