Every Voice in Action Foundation established the Youth Crew in 2000 as a way to “walk our talk” as an advocate of youth voice and activism. The Foundation relies on this diverse group of 16 high school and college-aged youth to fund programs they judge to be the most relevant and effective for youth in Greater Tucson.

The Youth Crew is not an advisory group. They are empowered to actively engage in the work of the Foundation – and are responsible for granting $50,000 each year.

Every Voice in Action Foundation established the Youth Crew in 2000 as a way to “walk our talk” as an advocate of youth voice and activism. The Foundation relies on this diverse group of 16 high school and college-aged youth to fund programs they judge to be the most relevant and effective for youth in Greater Tucson.

The Youth Crew is not an advisory group. They are empowered to actively engage in the work of the Foundation – and are responsible for granting $50,000 each year.

The Youth Crew is a group of youth who:

● Create and implement one or more action projects around issues of youth activism

● Gain skills and knowledge about philanthropy, nonprofit organizations, grantmaking and evaluation

● Review proposals from local nonprofit organizations and decide which programs should receive $50,000 in grant funding

● Design and implement program evaluation of programs receiving grant funds

● Have a real voice in the activities of Every Voice in Action Foundation

What do members get out of their Youth Crew participation? Youth Crew members have the opportunity to:

● Have their ideas heard and make a real difference in our community by deciding how to direct grant dollars, engaging in community change projects and sharing their perspectives and ideas with community leaders

● Develop leadership, communication and teamwork skills

● Earn qualifying community service hours for school

● Meet other young people who share their desire to improve our community

● Eat lots of food and have lots of fun!

What’s involved? Youth Crew members commit to…

● Participating for one full school year (September – May)

● Attending weekly Youth Crew meetings

● Attending two weekend retreats

● Completing some work outside of meetings (reviewing proposals, etc.) and attending a few special events throughout the year Nomination and application forms will be available for Youth Crew XI in August 2010.