The J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation has announced the inaugural application cycle for the Youth Grant Program, aimed at empowering young individuals to contribute positively to their communities. This grant program is specifically designed for students aged 5 to 18 who reside in Muskingum County, Ohio. The Foundation encourages proposals for projects and programs that reflect the unique perspectives of youth in identifying community issues and developing innovative solutions. The grant offers funding of up to $2,500, with no specified minimum or maximum project scale, allowing for both large and small initiatives.

The primary purpose of the Youth Grant Program is to support projects that enhance community well-being through the active involvement of young people. The Foundation values the creativity and insights of youth, believing that they can play a crucial role in addressing local challenges. The program aims to foster a sense of responsibility and leadership among young individuals by providing them with the resources needed to implement their ideas.

Funding from the grant can be utilized for various activities or programs that directly benefit the students named in the application. The Foundation emphasizes the importance of a fiscally responsible budget, encouraging applicants to request only the necessary amount to complete their projects. All funds awarded must be used for project implementation, and recipients are required to submit a project completion report within six months of receiving the funds or within one month of project completion.

Eligibility for the Youth Grant Program is open to students aged 5 to 18 who live in Muskingum County, Ohio. Applications can be submitted by individuals or groups, such as school clubs, classrooms, teams, or scout troops, as long as all members meet the age requirement. Each project must have an adult supervisor, such as a parent or teacher, who will oversee the project, ensure proper use of funds, and maintain documentation.

Applications will be evaluated based on three main criteria: quality, creativity, and impact. Quality refers to the completeness and detail of the application, as well as evidence of thoughtful planning. Creativity assesses the originality of the proposed project, while impact evaluates the potential positive effects on the community. It is essential for applicants to demonstrate their own ideas and efforts in the application process.

The application deadline for the Youth Grant Program is set for October 28, 2024. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the Foundation's website for more information and to access the application. The program is part of the Foundation's ongoing commitment to support youth engagement and community improvement initiatives in Muskingum County.