YouthCharge Program

Change the world from anywhere.

The Program

YouthCharge brings together groups of 10-15 students to tackle an issue they care about, either virtually or in person. The program is 100% youth-led and youth-directed.

We use a unique 3-step philanthropic process to teach teens the skills they need to make an impact. Each YouthCharge board is a mini foundation working to tackle the biggest needs in their communities.

The YouthCharge program is unique because:

  • It can be done entirely virtual or in person. Boards can have members from anywhere around the globe, or it can be done in person in a community.
  • It is entirely youth-led. Each YouthCharge board is independently driven by participants, with support from YouthRoots staff and an adult facilitator as needed.
  • It is entirely experiential. Every meeting has a tangible outcome, and participants gain real-world leadership and change-making skills as they progress through the program. In just 15 weeks, they will make a real, lasting impact on their communities and gain skills needed to succeed in today’s world.

3-Step Philanthropic Process

The YouthCharge program uses our unique 3-step philanthropic process to teach teens how to make an impact in their community.

1. Needs Assessment: We kick off the year by diving deep into the most pressing issues facing youth in our local communities. Participants reflect on the issues they care most about, as well as what their communities think, and make the final decisions about what issues the group will focus on. Past issues include poverty, education, and mental health.

2. Fundraising: Next students get to expose the community to the work their team is doing by meeting with professional movers and shakers and putting on creative fundraising events. They learn the essentials of giving a meaningful Fundraising Pitch and start bringing in the big bucks by meeting with professionals in the community who are looking to contribute to the most pressing issues.

3. Grant-Making: This is where all the hard work pays off! Teams decide which nonprofits are doing the best at meeting the community needs and give away 100% of the funding raised to these organizations. Students provide much-needed services to at-risk youth who may otherwise not receive them. This program helps develop leadership skills while changing the world!

Bring the YouthCharge Program to your Community

Ready to launch a YouthCharge board and see the life-changing impact ripple through your own community? Contact us today at info@youthroots.org to learn how easy it is!

YouthRoots offers various versions of the YouthCharge program, including:

  • Community Needs (general)
  • Equity
  • Mental Health
  • Customize around an umbrella issue of your choice

“I have always been told that youth have the power to change the world, but YouthCharge is one of the first places that truly demonstrated that belief.” – Past Participant