January 20, 2022 (Kenosha, WI) — United Way of Kenosha County (UWKC), mobilizing the caring power of our community, and in partnership with University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension, is excited to continue the Youth As Resources (YAR) ’22-’23 funding cycle. YAR funds community service projects in Kenosha County with students speaking up for and addressing community needs most important to them.
Currently, YAR is accepting applications for youth-led community service projects. Local youth in grades K-12 are encouraged to apply to receive up to $500 to complete their project. There are two more funding opportunities available this school year. The upcoming deadline for students to apply for a YAR grant is on Friday, February 17th. The final ’22-’23 grant application will become available in March with a deadline of Friday, March 17th. Students can apply for funding by visiting: kenosha.extension.wisc.edu/youth/yar.
“During my time on the Youth As Resources Board, I have gained many valuable leadership skills that will last a lifetime,” says Abbey Proctor, YAR President and twelfth grade student. “My involvement with YAR has also allowed me to see firsthand the impact that youth can have on their community - it is amazing what can be accomplished when youth are given a voice and the means to create positive change.”
The YAR Board consists of nine high school members and three adult members, with all executive officer positions being fulfilled by student members. The program fosters complete youth involvement, including not only leading the approved service projects but also reviewing and allocating grant funds.
Last semester, roughly 1.5 thousand dollars was awarded across six service projects. The recipients of the 2022-2023 YAR grants include:
Concerned Citizens Coalition: Teen Task Force for "Coleman Chapel Blessing Box" Project
Josiah Reinholz with Kenosha County Parks: "Bristol Woods Hammock Wheel" Project
Kenosha Trailblazers 4-H Club: "Spreading Warmth" Project
Mahone Middle School: "Leopold Benches-Weather Proof Table-Tops & Tool Storage Shed" Project
Westosha Central High School National Honor Society: "Keep Kenosha Warm" Project
Westosha Central High School Key Club: "Together We Rise Duffle Bag Donations" Project
Youth as Resources is made possible by a partnership between United Way of Kenosha County and University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.
“Youth As Resources is an incredible opportunity for youth in our community to develop their skills and make a difference,” says Erica Ness, Positive Youth Development Educator, at Extension Kenosha County. “This program is proof that youth are both our present and our future. They are ready to step up and lead now, and I am proud to coordinate a program that supports them to do so.”
YAR is also currently recruiting youth applicants to join next year’s board. Teachers and other adults can nominate students to receive an application through Wednesday, February 15. Student applications will be accepted through Tuesday, April 11. More information is available online at kenosha.extension.wisc.edu/youth/yar.
“For more than 10 years, United Way of Kenosha County and University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension have partnered with Youth as Resources to help bring student ideas to life,” says Carolynn Friesch, Chief Executive Officer at UWKC. “YAR provides an unforgettable opportunity to inspire and empower youth to make change in our community.”
For more information, to get a grant application, or to get involved, visit: kenosha.extension.wisc.edu/youth/yar or contact Erica Ness at erica.ness@wisc.edu.