Youth are important.
When young people in a community thrive, they make their communities more vibrant. They volunteer in the community and help their neighbors. They speak up and speak out about their values and aspirations. They engage in school. They are creative. They take part-time jobs and internships. They value the land and work to protect it. They give a community a sense of pride and promise.
When youth struggle not only are their lives harmed, but the community’s future is also compromised. The Opportunity Fund for Southshire Youth is helping youth thrive, get the supports they need to overcome personal and community challenges, and pursue their dreams.
A rotating committee of Bennington-area residents with lived and professional experience about issues facing local youth collaborates with Community Foundation staff to review proposals and select grant recipients. Most grants are for small organizations and projects where a $500 to $3,500 grant can make a big difference. Since the Fund opened in 2018, thirty-three projects have received grants totaling $98,840.
Program Guidelines
![OFSY-LakeParan-PondDipping](https://vermontcf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/OFSY-LakeParan-PondDipping.png)
What type of applications does the OFSY Fund prioritize?
2024 Updates
Who is eligible to apply?
What size are the grants?
Deadline and Notification
Application Process
Contact Us
Contact Us
With questions about the Opportunity Fund for Southshire Youth and its grant program, please contact Jane Mulcahy.
![Jane Mulcahy](https://vermontcf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jane-Mulcahy-sq.jpg)