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Every Voice in Action established the Youth Crew in 2000 as a means to “walk our talk” regarding meaningful youth voice. Foundation staff rely on this highly diverse group of 15 – 17 high school and college-aged youth to provide expertise and insights about being a young person today, and to directly inform our grantmaking (so that we fund programs that are deemed the most effective and relevant by their potential end users – youth). The Youth Crew is not an advisory group. They are actively engaged in the work of the foundation – and are responsible for granting $50,000 each year.
Each new Youth Crew kicks off the program year with a weekend-long retreat. Participants get to know one another, start building a working team and begin learning about philanthropy, community change and pressing social issues. The group then writes and issues a Request for Proposals, reviews and evaluates proposals, conducts site visits and makes their funding decisions. New this year, the Youth Crew will design and implement social change projects and share their unique perspectives on a variety of topics with the community. 
In addition to training in philanthropy, youth voice and the art of grantmaking, the program’s curriculum also intentionally incorporates many skills and experiences that have much broader life applications beyond their participation in the Youth Crew. These include planning and decision-making skills (including consensus building), group dynamics, allocating limited resources, budgeting, facilitation, interpersonal communication, integrity, cultural competency, etc.
Each year, we recruit Youth Crew members from area schools and youth-serving organizations. They are nominated by teachers, counselors, friends, family, employers and former Crew members. Youth also nominate themselves, and we welcome members to return for a second (sometimes even a third) year of participation.
Click for more information about the Youth Crew, or contact Ed Mercurio-Sakwa or Marie Fordney at 615-2100.
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