Press Release--15 Forever Youth Leaders Needed for Grantmaking Program

15 Teens are needed to serve in the 15 Forever Youth Grantmaking Program

BOULDER COUNTY (March 28, 2008) –– The 15 Forever Program is a youth civic engagement, leadership, and grantmaking program of The Community Foundation. The intention of 15 Forever is to address the needs and concerns of Boulder County youth from a youth perspective.  Each year 15 Forever grants $15,000 to programs focused on the youth of Boulder County. Applications for 2008-2009 15 Forever Youth Leaders are now being accepted, with a deadline of April 15th.

The 15 Forever Advisory Committee is formed annually for a school-year term by fifteen youth leaders (ages 15 to 18) from across Boulder County.  The 15 Forever Youth Leaders meet five times per semester and learn about the following: assets; needs and risks for the youth population; financial literacy; existing non-profit organizations and programs; and grantmaking.

Grants recommended by the 15 Forever Youth Leaders are funded by generous contributions from community members and Philanthropiece Foundation (http://www.philanthropiece.org/ ). The endowment ensures that $15,000 will be granted for youth, by youth, in perpetuity.  Grants will be made to programs addressing issues affecting youth, including but not limited to health and human services, cultural, recreational, and educational activities.

Current 15 Forever Youth Leader, Madeline Puterbaugh, said, “The experience of being a 15 Forever Youth Leader has given me valuable first hand experience in the world of philanthropy in Boulder County. However, most importantly, my eyes were opened to just how many unique and equally important causes and organizations exist where we live. I can't help but to feel empowered and passionate by what we are doing to help them.”

How to become a 15 Forever Youth Leader?

Youth (ages 15-18) who live in Boulder County and  who are interested in joining 15 Forever for the 2008-2009 school year are encouraged to apply. No previous leadership experience is necessary. Feel free to contact Carly Hare at 303-442-0436 x111 or carly@commfound.org, This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it with any questions. Applications are due Tuesday, April 15, 2008. More detailed information and applications are available at http://www.commfound.org/news/index.html.

The Community Foundation exists to improve the quality of life in Boulder County, now and forever, and to build a culture of giving. The Foundation helps donors practice strategic philanthropy in Boulder County and beyond, and supports local non-profit organizations through grants and technical assistance. In 2007, The Community Foundation granted more than $5 million, and since 1991 has granted over $23,000,000. Through programs such as The Boulder County Civic Forum,  The Culture of Giving Movement, Social Venture Partners, and The Expanding Leadership Initiative, The Community Foundation provides leadership about issues and opportunities taking place in Boulder County.   To learn more, please visit www.commfound.org or call 303-442-0436.

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