While final numbers are still being tallied, the 2024–25 Senior Youth Philanthropy Board has already set a new fundraising record—over $45,000! Through diligent efforts including letter-writing campaigns, creative fundraisers, and direct asks, these motivated seniors learned a ton and went above and beyond their assignment. At their capstone celebration, they made the thoughtful decision to invest in the future of the program by contributing to both next year’s junior class and the YPB endowment.

The 2024-25 Junior Youth Philanthropy Board (YPB) awarded a record $27,170 to six Hall County nonprofits! These high school juniors led the entire grantmaking process—reviewing applications, conducting site visits, and making funding decisions. The funds, raised by last year’s senior cohort, were awarded at the April 3 capstone ceremony. Grantees include:

• • Big Brothers Big Sisters, School Based Program – $7,500
  • Cairo Community Foundation, Children’s Theatre – $6,000
  • First Light Child Advocacy, Project Rest Nest – $5,610
  • All Aboard for Stolley Park Campaign – $5,000
  • Wood River Food Pantry, Backpack Program – $2,000
  • TEAMMATES of GI, Blanket Blitz – $1,060

YPB is a partnership between the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation and Leadership Unlimited. Learn more at https://www.gicf.org/communities/youth-philanthropy-board-grant/