Funding Now Available for Programs Supporting Bennington-Area Youth

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 Opportunity Fund for Southshire Youth will award grants for creative and effective initiatives that empower and support Bennington-area teenagers, particularly those facing challenges and limited access to opportunities due to economic distress, disengagement from school, mental health issues, racism, gender identity, disability, legal status, or other reasons. In 2022, the fund will prioritize projects that:

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

Grant awards will be in the range of $500-$3,500. Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 8, 2022. Please visit vermontcf.org/ofsy for more information or to apply.