PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Philadelphia Foundation’s youth-in-philanthropy program, YOUTHadelphia, has awarded $50,000 in grants to five local nonprofits working to address critical challenges facing young people in the city.
The initiative, now in its 20th year, is part of the Fund for Children, created through stadium lease agreements with the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles. Since its founding in 2004, YOUTHadelphia has invested more than $1 million in youth-led projects, while also developing leadership skills among Philadelphia teens through direct involvement in philanthropy.
This year, 12 public high school students from Academy at Palumbo, Olney High School, Sayre High School, and West Philadelphia High School participated in the program, managed by PhillyBOLT. The students selected five grantees after reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and weighing the potential impact of each proposal.
“The YOUTHadelphia program is shaping the next generation of philanthropic leaders right here in Philadelphia,” said Phil Fitzgerald, Chief Impact Officer of the Philadelphia Foundation. “By equipping young people with the resources and strategies they need to understand how philanthropy impacts their community, we’re empowering them to make meaningful change now and throughout their lives.”
The 2025 grantees include:
- ACHIEVEability: Supporting the 60th Street Strong program, which provides youth leadership and professional development in neighborhoods affected by gun violence.
- As I Plant This Seed: Funding its Talk to Me mentorship series focused on trauma recovery, identity development, and creative expression.
- Imani Star Development: Supporting the WE EXPRESS US THROUGH ARTS PROGRAM (WEUTAP), which blends arts workshops with civic engagement and violence prevention.
- Ordinarie Heroes: Backing its Inspire Program, a year-round youth leadership initiative centered on mental health, career readiness, and creative expression.
- The Mastermind Cooperative: Supporting programs such as MasterMind Academy and Young Sister’s Circle, which integrate mindfulness, financial literacy, cultural identity, and restorative practices for youth as young as two.
Students reflected on their experiences during a closing reception, sharing how the program influenced their outlook. “It showed me how much of an impact I could make at a young age while also helping me learn about the decisions I want to make in the future,” said Jaiden Thompson, a student from West Philadelphia High School.
According to Hillary Do, Executive Director of PhillyBOLT, the program not only teaches philanthropy but places real decision-making power in students’ hands. “When we trust young people with real power and responsibility, they don’t just meet our expectations, they redefine what’s possible,” she said.
By pairing hands-on experience with community investment, YOUTHadelphia continues to position Philadelphia teens as active participants in shaping solutions to the challenges their communities face.
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