More than 50 schools have already signed up for the Your Community Fund initiative
Young people across Scotland have been signing up to champion their local communities.
Your Community Fund, which is being delivered through its Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) programme, is asking young people to work in virtual teams to develop creative digital submissions highlighting how their community has been affected by the pandemic and a local charity making a difference at this time.
Across Scotland, more than 50 schools have pledged to give their students the opportunity to submit entries.
Sir Ian Wood, chairman of The Wood Foundation, said: “The country is facing huge hardships and problems. This project gives young people the chance to get involved in a really worthwhile project whereby they can have some impact on the Covid-19 pandemic in their local area.”
Jonathan Christie, deputy UK director of The Wood Foundation, said: “Although many school buildings are closed, this response reinforces that school communities remain very much open.
“While there is so much uncertainty and challenge in the world, the need to engage and empower our young people to be part of the response is vitally important. We are delighted to be providing this opportunity for young people to demonstrate care, compassion and commitment in their communities.
“Your Community Fund gives them the platform and opportunity to work collaboratively and creatively to develop submissions which could secure vital funding for charities dealing with Covid-19’s impact on our local communities.”
Entries will be judged by a panel. Up to 50 winning teams will secure £4000 for the charity they have represented. Your Community Fund gives students who were unable to complete their YPI programme of activity due to school closures the opportunity to effect social change and develop key skills.
YPI is the flagship programme of The Wood Foundation in the UK. Since its launch in 2008, in the region of 200,000 young people have been responsible for channeling grants of around £4.5m to charities in Scotland.
Successful applications to #yourcommunityfund will be announced on 17th June, with funds sent directly to charities following the announcement.
More details are available on the YPI website.
