Youth Grantmaking Initiative
In March 2011 BCF launched the Youth Grantmaking Program as a way to engage Brookline youth in their community and get them excited about the impact of giving. The initiative provided a quality learning experience and exposure to philanthropy for 13 young adults from a variety of Brookline schools, ranging from ages 13 to 17. The members have the opportunity to serve on the Youth Grantmaking Team for two years. Those continuing to serve as part of the Youth Grantmaking Team will return in the Fall to work on additional projects as well as review the outcomes of their first two grants.
Youth Grantmaking Team Grants made in spring 2011:
The Brookline Community Foundation’s Youth Grantmaking Team recommended two grants totaling $6,000 to the Board of Trustees at its June 8th meeting. The Board approved funding of the proposals for the Brookline Early Education Program (BEEP) summer literacy program, Summer Sparks, as well as the Brookline Community Mental Health Center (BCMHC) mentoring program, Brothers and Sister Toward Success.
The Summer Sparks program aims to slow or stop summer regression for students with emerging reading and writing skills. The program enhances literacy experiences for children ages 3 through 7 who may struggle with literacy development. Brothers and Sisters Toward Success is for male and female METCO students in Brookline who are moving from elementary to high school. The primary goal is helping METCO students build a strong and positive sense of self and their capabilities. The Youth Grantmaking Team hopes their grants to these two programs will help improve the lives of youth across Brookline.
The Youth Grantmaking Team would like to thank Boston Private Bank & Trust for their generous sponsorship and helping make this program possible.