Youth Community Fund
The Youth Community Fund (YCF) is a group of approximately 50-60 10th - 12th grade high school students who learn about philanthropy and the role of nonprofits in our community. Participants will:
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Engage in a variety of volunteer projects at different local nonprofit organizations
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Raise funds for the YCF grants pool
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Identify and invite a group of agencies to apply for funding
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Review funding requests and collectively agree on how best to allocate funds, approximately $15,000, to local nonprofit organizations
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​Youth Community Fund participants must commit to attend monthly meetings and a minimum of 3 community service activities. Students, in groups of 4-6, participate in the funding review process which includes site visits to nonprofit organizations.
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Volunteer activities and fundraisers are scheduled on afternoons or weekends.
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Past volunteer activities have included serving dinner at a homeless shelter, teaching English classes at an immigrant center, stocking shelves at a food pantry, tutoring students at an after-school program, and hosting a holiday party for disabled adults. In addition, the group invites nonprofit leaders to come speak to YCF about their nonprofit organizations and the needs in our community.
The group is led by Lisa Haas, Community Investments Director, parent advisors, and high school seniors in elected leadership positions.
Questions? Please email Lisa Haas
2024-2025 Youth Program Recap
Towards the end of the school year, our Youth Community Fund (YCF) students identify a group of local nonprofit organizations to consider for funding. The YCF students review grant applications and conduct site visits at the nonprofits and collectively agree on how best to allocate the funds. This year, the students awarded a total of $15,500 to 15 local nonprofits.
“Over the years, YCF has truly shaped me into a better person and opened my eyes to the broader Fairfield County community.”
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I loved having a voice in this group and being able to help my community in a way that matters.”
Check out the July 2025 Issue of Darien Living magazine for a special feature on these inspiring Community Fund youth program participants!
Volunteering at New Covenant Center
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From serving meals to stocking pantry shelves, the Youth Community Fund (YCF) students made a big impact volunteering at New Covenant Center! Together, they helped serve over 100 dinners, washed dishes, and stocked the pantry.
Volunteering at Filling In the Blanks
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Volunteering at Children's Learning Center
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