Teen Initiative Enhanced Summer Teen Program Grant

Background and Purpose:

The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, with months of shelter-in-place, disruption of school and social activities, and absence of in-person gatherings, followed by cancellation of camp and usual summer programming, has created a deep need for teen connection and meaningful engagement this summer.

Teens are experiencing a lack of social interaction, tremendous uncertainty, and the absence of physical activities, all of which are key components of healthy adolescent development. Whether shelter-in-place restrictions begin to lift, or social distancing becomes the new normal, the Jewish Teen Education and Engagement Initiative (Teen Initiative) seeks to partner with organizations who are working to redefine and implement innovative approaches to teen engagement which nurture teen social and emotional wellness during the summer months. 

The Teen Initiative is a project of the Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund, with generous support from the Jim Joseph Foundation and a consortium of local funders.

Proposal Guidelines

Grants will support organizations with established teen communities who seek to create new or enhanced opportunities for teen engagement through social action and community service projects, health and wellness activities, and innovative Jewish programming. 

These grants are for programming during July and August 2020. We recognize the challenge of planning during uncertain times, however, we remain optimistic that shelter-in-place restrictions will become less stringent and may allow for small in-person gatherings. As such, we welcome proposals that present both in-person and virtual options for engagement to create belonging and connection, provide a sense of purpose, and spark creativity and joy for teens.        

Qualified applicants will demonstrate:

• Track record of success in teen engagement in the Bay Area
• Inclusion of teen voice and leadership in current program delivery and in plans for program expansion
• Organizational capacity with structures in place to execute program
• Willingness to share ideas and harness learnings for the field

Funding is limited and this is a competitive RFP, so please share only your best and forward-thinking ideas. Collaborations and partnerships are welcome but not necessary.

Proposals are due on June 2 – a quick turnaround so that we can support your summer plans!  

Eligibility and Criteria:

• Registered 501(c)3 nonprofit or organization with fiscal sponsorship in the Federation’s service area.
• Successful track record working with Jewish teens – including youth groups, Jewish overnight camps, JCCs, Jewish high schools, and all innovative organizations that engage teens.
• Availability of competent staff and organizational resources to implement the program. 
• Evidence of teen voice in the planning and implementation of activities.
• Commitment to participating in evaluation activities for the Teen Initiative locally and on a national level, which may include surveys, interviews, and focus groups.

Grant Opportunity:

Grants between $2,500 - $15,000 will be awarded to organizations offering programming in one of three areas: 

1. Health and wellness activities 
2. Teen-led social activism and community service projects 
3. Enhanced and innovative Jewish programming 

Funding may support program expenses and direct staffing.

Health and Wellness
As teens cope with unparalleled stressors of this time, it has become essential to provide opportunities for teens to engage socially, emotionally, creatively, and physically – even if in small groups or virtually. Examples of programs in this area include outdoor activities, mindfulness practices, exercise/movement, healthy cooking, art explorations, or other innovative explorations of health and wellbeing.

Social Activism, Community Service Projects, and Volunteer Opportunities 
There are several local volunteer opportunities and mutual aid projects that have arisen during the pandemic, with the goal of mobilizing communal participation to care for people facing unprecedented need resulting from the COVID pandemic. Participation by teens can foster a sense of purpose while putting the Jewish value of tikkun olam into action. Teens may start their own projects or collaborate with an organization or initiative already in process.  

Jewish Learning and Programming
One of the most important elements of Jewish camp is its ability to build a love for Judaism and connection to Jewish identity. In the absence of the deep, immersive experience of camp, how might teens discover new ways to engage meaningfully with Jewish practice and rituals through virtual experience or small group gatherings? Be innovative and create a new program, enhance and add new elements to one that you have piloted during shelter-in-place, or partner with other organizations to expand your reach.

Apply Now

Timeline

For more information, please contact the Teen Initiative.