For Students
Youth for Community Improvement (YCI) promotes civic leadership through a teen-led experience resulting in grants to local nonprofits working in areas of high importance to young people.
Eligibility
All high school students in Worcester County who are interested in developing leadership skills, enjoying working collaboratively with others, and who are willing to commit to participating enthusiastically and thinking critically to create a real, effective change in their communities.
YCI students are typically in their sophomore or junior year of high school, but we encourage all years of students to apply. We believe that every student, no matter your year or amount of experience with extracurriculars, has a valuable voice and can contribute meaningfully.
Applications for YCI are now open with a rolling deadline. Interview selection will begin after June 12.
Ready to apply?
Participation Requirements
YCI will meet on the following dates from 5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at Greater Worcester Community Foundation in downtown Worcester. We expect that all students who apply can attend and participate in the program fully. A transportation stipend and dinner are provided.
Students can participate for two years and will serve in a further leadership capacity for their second year.
| Kickoff Meeting | September 9 |
|---|---|
| Meeting 1 | September 16 |
| Meeting 2 | September 23 |
| Meeting 3 | October 7 |
| Meeting 4 | October 14 |
| Meeting 5 | October 28 |
| Meeting 6 | November 4 |
| Meeting 7 | November 18 |
| Meeting 8 | December 2 |
| Meeting 9 | January 6 |
| Meeting 10 | January 20 |
| Meeting 11 | February 3 |
| Meeting 12 | February 10 |
| Meeting 13 | February 24 |
| Grantee Reception | March 3 |
The most interesting part of YCI was how one person's perspective could completely shift how we saw things, showing me the power of open-minded collaboration. YCI has shaped how I view philanthropy and how I will approach giving back in the future — I used to think it was reserved for the wealthy, but now I know anyone can make an impact.
- Chloe Cheng, YCI Class of 2024
There will be two information sessions will be held on Zoom.
2025 - 26 Cohort
Read about what last year's cohort accomplished!
Want to learn more about this community-centric approach to youth philanthropy?
Read a case study on our Youth for Community Improvement program from The Sillerman Center for the Advancement of Philanthropy at Brandeis University.
Questions?
Contact Amaris Gonzalez
Program Officer for Youth and Families
508-755-0980