The North Carolina Department of Administration Council for Women & Youth Involvement (CFWYI) is accepting mini grant applications through its State Youth Council program, beginning today. Youth Councils are active across the state, enabling students to enhance their communities while helping their peers. The annual mini grant program specifically targets youth, particularly high school students grades 9 - 12, giving Youth Council members an opportunity to help local peers establish leadership skills in project development, management and communication.

NC Department of Administration Secretary Machelle Sanders said the mini grant program aids in building and improving North Carolina communities while preparing youth for a successful future. “The program fuels innovation and leadership among North Carolina’s best and brightest students, sharpening essential skills necessary for the jobs of today and tomorrow,” she said.

The application is open to youth councils, local government, private and non-profit agencies interested in developing innovative youth programs. This year, the State Youth Council will award a total of $6,500 to deserving organizations and agencies. Mini grants will range from $100 to $500. To be eligible, applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 1, 2019.

The State Youth Councils will screen applications during the Mini-Grant Conference in Rocky Mount, North Carolina on November 15 - 17. The Youth Advisory Council will also review applications before grants are awarded.

Examples of projects from past mini grant recipients include:

• A health program to educate youth on how to make better decisions regarding wellness;
• Acquisition of exercise equipment;
• And, a partnership with an animal shelter to build pens for dog shelters.

Food, entertainment, travel and salaries do not qualify for grant funding.

For additional information and to apply, contact CFWYI Office’s State Youth Council Coordinator, Candace Dudley, at 919-807-4407.