United Way of Halifax Region

(Halifax, NS) United Way of Halifax Region is thrilled to fund a wide variety of projects, submitted and led by youth ages 12-23. The Youth Grants program is new and was developed with a group of young volunteers living in HRM. They created the criteria, advised in the selection process, and will provide support for grant recipients, and assist with promotion of the grants. Eighteen projects have been approved.

The Youth Grants Committee decided that the projects must be youth-led, (youth means 23 years of age or younger) must have a positive impact on the community, must be affiliated with a registered charity and must take place in the Halifax region. Total funding is $9000 and grants range from $300-$500 each.

United Way is committed to these unique grants that might not otherwise be able to find funding. This is exciting news for Chris Keliher, member of the Youth Grants Selection Committee. “After careful planning, youth are ready to take control. It will be inspiring to see the huge impact that a small amount of funds and a large will to succeed can produce in our community”.

The projects vary in size and scope and include improving outdoor spaces, creating recreation programs, leadership development, peer education and adult/youth relationship building. United Way of Halifax Region believes that everyone has something to contribute to make our community a great place to live. We know that youth have the skills and experience to be community builders.

United Way combines the best mix of human and financial resources to support positive change for individuals, organizations and neighbourhoods. Donations fund 55 agencies across HRM as well as activities to engage and encourage residents of Spryfield and Dartmouth North to be involved and become leaders in their community. United Way volunteers are also rallying support for 211, a community connection number that will give all Nova Scotians the opportunity to find the community, health or government services they need with one simple call.

                                                     -30-