Youth Groups Get $1.25M Boost to Cultivate Next Generation of Civic Leaders

New Funding Aims to Equip Young People with Skills for a Thriving Democracy

Washington, D.C. – In a move to bolster civic engagement among young Americans, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) has received a $1.25 million grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The funding will expand existing programs designed to equip youth with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become active and informed citizens, at a time when participation in democratic processes is increasingly seen as vital – and increasingly challenged.

The grant will support three core initiatives: ‘Think, Learn, Create Change,’ a year-round leadership development program; ‘Youth Leading Change,’ which focuses on direct civic participation; and the annual ‘Summit for America’s Youth’ in Washington, D.C., a key event where club members engage with policymakers and explore public service careers.

Addressing a Growing Need

The funding comes at a critical juncture, as concerns about civic literacy and youth engagement continue to rise. While young people demonstrate a strong desire to impact their communities – particularly around issues like climate change and social justice – many lack access to the resources and support needed to translate that passion into meaningful action.

“We’re seeing a real appetite for civic involvement among young people,” explained one source familiar with the program. “But that energy needs to be channeled effectively. They need to learn how to navigate complex systems, advocate for their beliefs, and engage in constructive dialogue.”

The Carnegie Corporation recognizes this need, focusing its grantmaking efforts on strengthening U.S. democracy by fostering civic participation and leadership. “A well-informed and engaged citizenry is the bedrock of a thriving democracy,” stated Ambika Kapur, Program Director at the Carnegie Corporation of New York. “This investment in BGCA’s programs is a direct response to the need to cultivate the next generation of civic leaders.”

Building on Existing Success

The grant isn’t about launching entirely new programs, but rather about scaling and strengthening initiatives that have already proven effective. The ‘Think, Learn, Create Change’ model, for instance, is a well-established curriculum designed to teach teens research skills, effective communication, and advocacy techniques. The annual ‘Summit for America’s Youth’ provides a unique opportunity for club members to engage directly with lawmakers and gain firsthand experience with the legislative process.

What sets BGCA apart, according to sources, is its ability to reach youth from diverse backgrounds and provide a safe and supportive environment for civic learning. “These clubs are often a lifeline for young people who may not have access to these opportunities elsewhere,” one source said. “It’s a place where they can explore their interests, develop their skills, and find their voice.”

A Holistic Approach to Civic Engagement

The Carnegie Corporation’s investment extends beyond simply teaching young people how to participate in democracy. It also focuses on fostering the values and dispositions necessary for responsible citizenship – things like critical thinking, empathy, and a commitment to the common good.

“It’s not enough to just teach kids the mechanics of government,” explained one program analyst. “We also need to help them develop a sense of civic responsibility and a commitment to solving problems in their communities.”

This holistic approach aligns with growing calls for a broader definition of civic education – one that goes beyond rote memorization of facts and figures and emphasizes the importance of social-emotional learning, media literacy, and community engagement.

Part of a Larger Trend

The Carnegie Corporation’s investment in BGCA is part of a larger trend of philanthropic organizations prioritizing youth civic engagement. Foundations like Ford and the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan are also making grants to organizations that empower young people to become active and informed citizens.

“We’re seeing a growing recognition that investing in youth civic engagement is essential for the health of our democracy,” said a representative from another foundation involved in similar work. “These young people are the future, and we need to equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.”

Addressing Barriers to Participation

While the funding is a welcome boost, some experts caution that systemic barriers to civic participation – such as socioeconomic inequality and racial discrimination – must also be addressed. Many young people, particularly those from marginalized communities, face significant obstacles to engaging in democratic processes.

“It’s not enough to just provide opportunities for civic engagement,” said one advocate for youth rights. “We also need to address the root causes of inequality and ensure that all young people have a fair chance to participate.”

The Carnegie Corporation acknowledges these challenges and emphasizes the importance of creating equitable opportunities for all young people. “We believe that civic education should be accessible to all, regardless of background or socioeconomic status,” said Kapur. “We are committed to working with our partners to ensure that all young people have the opportunity to become engaged and informed citizens.”

Looking Ahead

The $1.25 million grant is expected to have a significant impact on BGCA’s ability to cultivate the next generation of civic leaders. By scaling existing programs and creating new opportunities for youth engagement, the grant will help to ensure that young people have the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to participate fully in our democracy. As one source put it, “This is an investment in the future – and it’s one that we can’t afford not to make.”

The program's success will be measured by several key metrics, including increased participation in civic activities, improved levels of civic knowledge, and a greater sense of civic efficacy among BGCA members. The Carnegie Corporation will work closely with BGCA to monitor progress and ensure that the grant is having a positive impact on the lives of young people. The hope is that this initiative will serve as a model for other organizations seeking to invest in the next generation of civic leaders and strengthen our democracy for years to come.