The Marin Academy Youth Grants Board is a student-run philanthropy board that funds youth-led projects benefiting the Bay Area. As part of the board, we select and fund service-based projects for up to $1,000. We are looking for motivated young people, who are inspired to start or continue a community action project that benefits our local communities. Contact the Center if you’d like an application. Questions, comments and proposals should be sent to grants@ma.org.

Project Criteria

• Projects must be student-led and should build youth skills and talents and/or help improve Bay Area communities

• May receive up to $1,000 for action projects in your community

• Projects must have an adult sponsor

• We do not fund stipends, travel expenses or international service trips.

Examples of past awarded projects:

“Ball for All will introduce youth in the Canal to the power of fitness when it comes to mental and physical well being. We will provide the students with a chance to learn how to care for their own bodies and will introduce them to an athletic activity that will motivate them to eat well and strengthen their community by strengthening their own bodies and minds” (Ball For All Grant Proposal).

“Make a Splash, sponsored by USA Swimming, provides free swim lessons for underprivileged children. Our ultimate goal for the end of the summer is to have each student pool safe, or at least comfortable in the water. Studies have shown that swim lessons reduce the chance of drowning by 88%, so if we can achieve this goal, we will be making a significant impact on each child’s development. Our project develops skills for both the young children and our volunteers” (Make a Splash Grant Proposal).