Howard County Executive Ball Announces Youth Engagement Grants

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball today announcing Youth Engagement Programming (YEP!) Grants during a rally at the People Tree in ColumbiaHoward County Executive Calvin Ball today announced impactful Youth Engagement Programming (YEP!) Grants during a rally at the People Tree in Columbia. These grants promote youth activities and engagement in Howard County through free, accessible, and supportive programming developed by nonprofit and community organizations.

“Engagement is vital to the growth of our young people and our community,” said Dr. Daria Willis, President, Howard Community College. “I look forward to the new possibilities that will be realized through the YEP! Program. Grants provide funding to make transformation possible.”

YEP! grants promote youth activities and engagement in Howard County through free, accessible, and supportive programming developed by nonprofit and community organizations. The goal of these grants is to provide community organizations with the resources to develop programs for young people in Howard County that are offered outside of traditional school hours.

“As a community, it is our responsibility to support the growth and development of our young people. By curating spaces that offer a wide range of opportunities and experiences, we can help them discover their passions, build relationships with others, and prepare for success in all areas of life” said Amonee Read, St. John Baptist Church

Recipients may use this funding to expand current successful programs that their organization is already offering if the proposal can demonstrate how this grant funding will contribute to increasing youth engagement in Howard County. Grant applications that focus on social-emotional learning, mental health and wellness, and community partnerships with local organizations and institutions will be favorably considered. Grants will be awarded for a period of eighteen months, and the average award will range from $10,000-$50,000. The YEP! Grant application period runs from March 1, 2023 to May 31, 2023. Applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis while funds are available. For more information on the program, click here.