How to make a strong Youth Opportunities Fund grant application
By Sara Norman, Key Club International trustee
A Youth Opportunities Fund grant helps take your service project to the next level. Following these tips can make your application stand out.
- Start with the need, not the project. Successful applications clearly show why the project is needed. Identify a challenge in your community and build your project around solving it. The Community Needs Assessment Tool can help you determine where your club can make the greatest impact. can help you determine where your club can make the greatest impact.
- Partnerships make projects stronger. Many Youth Opportunities Fund grant projects involve collaboration with schools, nonprofits, businesses or other community organizations. It demonstrates that your project has community support.
- Build a budget that tells your story. Every expense should connect directly to your project’s goals. If someone unfamiliar with the project can look at your budget and understand what you’re doing, you’re on the right track.
- Think beyond the event. Applications that emphasize outcomes stand out. Ask yourself: Who benefits? What difference will this project make six months or even a year later? Instead of listing only what your club will do, explain what will change because of your project.
- Use the rubric to your advantage. The YOF Evaluation Rubric is one of the most valuable resources for applicants. Essentially, it tells you what reviewers are looking for. Study every category and ask yourself whether your application clearly addresses each area.
- Get feedback before submitting. A second set of eyes never hurts! Ask an advisor, officer or fellow member to review your application.* Sometimes a small revision can make a big difference.
If your club takes the time to understand its community, plan carefully and tell its story effectively, you’ll be well on your way to submitting a strong YOF application. Good luck — I can’t wait to see the incredible projects Key Club members create this year!
*Advisors play an important role in helping clubs plan projects, review budgets and ensure applications are complete — while still allowing members to take ownership of the process.