Touchstone Foundation has opened the initial application period for a new grant initiative promoting youth mentorship.
The Youth Mentorship Partnership aims to expand programs that match adult mentors with young people up to age 26. Funding will be provided for staff and volunteer training on trauma-informed practices, mental health first aid and related areas, the foundation said. A total pool of at least $50,000 is available.
Touchstone is holding an online information session for potential applicants from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24. To RSVP, click here. The session will be recorded and made available afterward as well.
Touchstone’s Youth Mentorship Partnership initiative stems from the findings of its latest needs assessment, released last year. The data collection included a “listening tour” of young people, who consistently Touchstone that they wanted trusted adults to be available to provide them advice and share in activities. Touchstone explored the issue further at a forum in November.
More information and initial grant application materials are available on Touchstone’s grant portal (registration required).
Initial applications will be due Thursday, Feb. 15, Touchstone said. Following an initial screening, selected applicants will be invited to complete a full application, opening March 1 and due April 15. Funding awards will be announced June 1, with a start date of July 1.
