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Local nonprofits encouraged to apply for VyStar Foundation’s youth grants of up to $20K

FILE -- (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) (Carolyn Kaster, Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – VyStar Foundation started accepting requests Monday from local nonprofits to apply for a grant of up to $20,000 as part of the foundation’s youth grant cycle.

According to the foundation, funding priority will be given to nonprofits that support youth (ages 12-18) in their academic achievement by providing resources in one or more of the following areas:

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  • Food and housing assistance
  • Career counseling and skill development
  • Mental health support

“At VyStar Foundation, we believe that empowering youth is the key to building strong, thriving communities,” said Patricia McElroy, President VyStar Foundation. “This grant cycle focuses on supporting organizations that offer wraparound services like food, shelter, career counseling and mental health support. By equipping students with the right tools and essential resources, we can pave the way for their academic success.”

The foundation said it will consider youth grant requests of up to $20,000 and will fund a total of $200,000.

The Board of Directors, at its discretion, may vary funding amounts and the number of awards depending on the quality and number of applications received, according to the foundation.

VyStar Foundation grant application information sessions will be held virtually throughout September:

  • Tuesday, Sept. 17 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Thursday, Sept. 19 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Sept. 24 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

To register for one of the virtual sessions, visit vystarfoundation.org/grants.

Youth grant applications are due by 5 p.m. on Oct. 13, 2024.

Grants through VyStar Foundation are available to 501(c)(3) organizations whose purpose and mission align with the foundation’s strategic giving pillars:

  • Military: Ensuring military members, veterans and their families receive the social services they need and the recognition they deserve
  • Youth: Empowering youth by providing equitable access to creative learning environments
  • Community Building: Cultivating financially strong, culturally vibrant, and interconnected communities

For more information about eligibility and how to apply, view the Notification of Funding Opportunity and learn more at vystarfoundation.org.


About the Author

Marcela joined News4JAX in 2023. She grew up in Mexico and eventually moved to California to pursue her dream of becoming a journalist. Now, she is a proud San Diego State University alumna who has many years of experience in TV and digital journalism.

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