Topeka Youth Commission, community foundation offering $10,000 in grants to fund local youth-led projects

With assistance from the Topeka Community Foundation, the Topeka Youth Commission is excited to announce it is now accepting applications for Stay785, an annual grant program created to fund community projects designed and directed by youth in the Topeka and Shawnee County area.

For its 2023-2024 term, Stay785 will provide up to $10,000 in funding to support a variety of projects led by local youths. The goal of Stay785 is to give young people in the area a chance to pursue initiatives that bring their visions for Topeka and Shawnee County to life, with the goal of keeping youths involved in the community and attracting more young people to the area. Examples of potential projects include, but are not limited to, public art, restoration projects, DEI initiatives, beautification efforts, local events, and modernization of attractions.

Individuals between the ages of 14 and 21, who have support from a local organization may apply for funding to go toward a project that seeks to improve Topeka/Shawnee County in some way. Grant awards will be determined by members of the Topeka Youth Commission, based on the quality and strength of each project presented.

“Stay785 is a special opportunity that allows local teenagers and college students to show us how they want to see their community progress,” said Camryn Crawford, Topeka Youth Commission chair. “I’m excited to see what projects young people in Shawnee County come up with this year. I know they’ll make a difference.”

“The Topeka Community Foundation has been grateful to partner with the Topeka Youth Commission over the years. It is an exciting time to see young leaders serving the community and providing leadership in Topeka and Shawnee County,” said Shane Warta, the community foundation’s Director of Strategic Initiatives. “Through Stay785, we hope to inspire the next generation, as we introduce the work of grantmaking and philanthropy to younger groups and learn about the creative projects that will be brought to life in our community this year.”

More information about Stay785 may be found on the Topeka Community Foundation’s website at TopekaCommunityFoundation.org/grant-information. For direct access to the application, click here. Stay785 applications close Nov. 25.