YouthScape

Go Grants is a YouthScape program, and is in partnership with the McConnell Foundation and the United Way of Calgary. It is designed to get youth between the ages of 12 and 24 years, in Calgary, to make changes in their community by providing funding and support. Youth can access these funds and support for youth-led, community-based projects. This means that youth can create projects that they feel are needed in their school, community, or neighborhood, and can receive up to $2,500 to help make it happen. In addition, the youth grantees can be paid an honorarium of up to 20% as a part of the grant model to encourage youth preoccupied with paying their monthly bills to still get involved in their community.

The YouthScape Steering Committee as well as the YouthScape Facilitator will review Go Grants applications and make final decisions to ensure that all criteria are met.

Who can apply for a Go Grant?
Applicants must be between the ages of 12-24 years old and live in Calgary and Area. Applicants can apply as an individual or group but the activity or project must be youth- led.

How much is the Grant?
Depending on the number of young people involved and the project, the grant can range up to $2,500; however, individuals can apply for a lesser amount. Upon approval, 50% of the grant will be given out at the beginning of the project and 50% will be given out half-way through the project, however, this will be discussed.

What projects does Go Grants support?
The activity or project must involve or engage communities that are considered “under-served” or “more vulnerable”. Such communities include: Aboriginal Youth, Street Youth, Immigrant Youth, Youth with Disabilities, Youth with English as a Second Language (ESL), and Youth At-Risk. In addition, the activity or project must be youth-led and the idea must have an impact on the community.

How and when can I apply?
Applicants need to fill out a short application form, which outlines the applicant’s idea, and submit it to the YouthScape facilitator and YouthScape Steering Committee for review.
We are always accepting new applications. Please allow for approximately 1 month for approval and processing.

Random Task Collective: A youth music collective
Parkour: Development of the Parkour website
Emily Campell: Youth video advocacy project
Kaiti Pasqualotto: I Heart Urban Dance
Kaitlyn Hatch: Art/social gatherings
Between Friends Club: Video project - A Day in the Life
Safe House: Open house

If you are a youth or an adult who would like to get involved in the YouthScape project, please contact Child and Youth Friendly Calgary @ youthscape@cyfc.ca, or (403) 266-5448, and join us in this three-year plan to realize our goal: a more vibrant and inclusive Calgary for all ages.