Funding Now Available for Youth Programs Serving Bennington-Area

Grants are now available to support dynamic and innovative youth programs in Bennington, North Bennington, Pownal, Shaftsbury, and Woodford through the Opportunity Fund for Southshire Youth at the Vermont Community Foundation.

The Fund awards grants for creative and effective initiatives that support and empower Bennington-area youth, particularly those facing challenges and limited access to opportunities due to economic distress, racism, being gender non-conforming, a mental health issue, a disability, their legal status, or another reason.

In 2021, the Fund will prioritize projects that:

• Elevate youth leadership and empowerment, especially of historically marginalized youth,
• Provide opportunity and access for youth facing hardships related to the COVID-19 pandemic,
• Expand youth engagement in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) activities and increase youth exposure to STEAM careers, and/or
• Advance youth entrepreneurship.

Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 14, 2021. Please visit vermontcf.org/opportunity-fund-for-southshire-youth for more information or to apply.