Give Next empowers young minds to make impactful grantmaking decisions. This spring, 34 classrooms across Larimer County are collectively awarding more than $177,250 in donor contributions and student fundraising to local nonprofits that align with issues students care about most. With 86 nonprofits applying for funding this year, the impact these young leaders make in our community is truly inspiring.
Giving In Action
Give Next students from Lesher Middle School discuss nonprofit applications.
In late February, Give Next participants from Lesher Middle School hosted nonprofit applicants for an interview and grantmaking session. This year, students chose to focus their mission statement on preventing drug abuse and addiction through awareness and education.
The day began with presentations from three nonprofit organizations: Lighthouse Sober Living, Partners Mentoring Youth, and KickStart Self-Defense. Each organization shared their mission, the communities they serve, and their work in Northern Colorado.
The students were “all ears,” taking detailed notes about the nonprofits’ work, funding sources, and program components. They also prepared thoughtful questions to ask at the end of each presentation, from the inspiration behind starting the nonprofit, to how their work has made a meaningful impact on the communities they serve.
After the presentations, students reviewed additional applications from nonprofits that weren’t able to attend the session. They worked in small groups to analyze the applicants’ financials and the alignment of nonprofits’ work with their classroom mission statement. The day wrapped up with a larger classroom discussion where students shared additional insights and made final decisions on which nonprofits would receive funding. Grant awards will be announced by students during their award ceremony in May.
Shaping the Next Generation
Give Next Donor discussing nonprofit applicant financials with Lesher students.
Chandler Elmore of Blue Federal Credit Union helped students review financial statements and served as a partner in learning. Elmore highlighted that the coming generation is eager to make the world around them a better place. He added that as a Give Next donor, Blue Federal Credit Union sees the impact of their donation every time they visit with student participants.
The impact of the Give Next program was also evident in the reflections of the teachers and nonprofit partners. Krista Summers, a Give Next teacher, highlighted the positive changes she has observed in her students throughout the year, noting an increase in empathy, compassion, and a desire to provide service to others. Jennifer Stover, a Program Specialist at Lighthouse, said, “As a nonprofit, I look forward to connecting with students through Give Next every year. It’s so wonderful to connect with students and give them the opportunity to learn more about our work and what we do for the Fort Collins community.”
A Powerful Learning Experience
Lesher students make final decisions on nonprofits to recieve grants from their Give Next classroom.
The Give Next classroom at Lesher Middle School includes students from different grade levels and academic areas and reflects the demographic and linguistic diversity of Northern Colorado. This mix of perspectives made the discussions and decision-making process even richer as they asked questions and shared personal experiences.
Throughout the day, the students shared insights into their favorite parts of the program. One Give Next student shared, “I like looking at what each nonprofit does and how they spend money.” Another added, “Give Next helped me realize that some people need help and others need support. My favorite thing about Give Next is helping people and nonprofits in our community.”
The decision-making process was a powerful learning experience for the students, fostering a sense of responsibility in strengthening our community. As students discussed potential grantees, they not only learned about the importance of giving, but also developed skills in deliberation and decision-making that will serve them well in the future.
Join Our Community of Donors
Through experiences like this, Give Next donors inspire the next generation to develop a deeper understanding of the complex social issues that impact our community and showcase the power youth hold in making a difference. Learn more about Give Next and make your impact today!