Youth Board

Youth Board

 

Mission & Vision

The mission of the UWSLOC Youth Board is to develop youth leadership and opportunities in the community by building awareness and making an impact through involvement in the United Way decision making process through awarding grants to local organizations. The United Way Youth Board envisions the development of a community in which all youths feel inspired to participate in community service while bettering themselves and San Luis Obispo County.

Overview

Youth BoardThe UWSLOC Youth Board is a unique volunteer experience that gives youth the control and responsibility of their projects. Up to thirty-five students serve as a United Way Youth Board of Directors and are given the opportunity to make a direct impact on their peers by addressing the needs of their community and awarding grants to local organizations. Each month, students from across the county meet to learn about SLO County and discuss community issues. They also participate in United Way projects and events, manage fundraising campaigns, and learn about the community and other local nonprofit organizations.

 


Youth Board Grants

Youth Board Grants Flyer Each year, the United Way Youth Board accepts applications for $1,000 grant awards to local groups that have created projects having a positive impact on youth (up to age 19). All applications are peer-reviewed by members of the Youth Board – our group of high school students seeking to increase equity, philanthropy and leadership in San Luis Obispo County youth, and improve programs to better serve our community. Selected applications will primarily benefit youth in the community with a focus on equity, diversity and inclusion.

Download PDF Flyer

Applications are now open!

Apply Online

Deadline to apply is March 3, 2024

Grant Timeline

  • March 3, 2024 – Grant application deadline
  • April 1, 2024 – Project funding approved
  • September 30, 2024 – Projects completed and all funds spent
  • November 30, 2024 – Final report and presentation to Youth Board

Past Recipients

2023

  • Restorative Partners
  • Cal Poly Learn By Doing Lab
  • Boys and Girls Clubs Mid-Central Coast

2022

  • Restorative Partners
  • SLO Museum of Art
  • Project Surf Camp

2021

  • Along Comes Hope
  • RISE San Luis Obispo County
  • Paso Robles Youth Arts Foundation
  • RaiseUp SLO

 


Youth Board Scholarships

United Way of San Luis Obispo County believes that every person in our community needs an opportunity for a good life. In its second year, the United Way Future in Bloom Halpin Leadership Scholarship is available to support youth in achieving their potential. United Way's education goal includes long-term support for students and families through high school graduation and beyond. One method of support comes in the form of this scholarship, funded in gratitude by Ed and Melanie Halpin, local philanthropists and business leaders, in support of their commitment to the importance of quality education and the pursuit of excellence.

Recognizing Outstanding High School Seniors

This scholarship recognizes outstanding high school seniors who have demonstrated strong academic ability and a commitment to learning, achievement and serving others in the community. This scholarship provides financial support for two awards. One for $1,000 and one for $500 to be used toward the cost of education expenses. These scholarships recognize young people who are pursuing post-secondary study at accredited colleges, universities, or vocational schools. It is the intent of these scholarships to recognize their achievements, commitment to success, service to community and to positively impact their pursuit of education. We recognize these students for their commitment to personal excellence and desire to excel in every aspect of life.

2023 United Way Future in Bloom Halpin Leadership Scholarship Award Winners

Clara$1,000 Winner
Clara Landeros
SLO High School
Attending: Vale University, Classics

 

Emily $500 Winner
Emily Pan
SLO High School
Attending: UCLA, Human Biology

Scholarship Fund Donor Message

“Continued and dramatic change is on the horizon for all of us in our community and however we can positively impact the quality of people's lives, especially our youth, is time and money well spent. Melanie and I have always cared deeply for the people we were privileged to work with and for the community in which we live. One way in reflecting that caring attitude has been to support our United Way of San Luis Obispo County and the Future in Bloom Society. Moving to action must start with examining our own hearts. We hope you will see it within yours to support this worthy cause.” —Ed and Melanie Halpin, Future in Bloom Society Members


"My family would like to thank you for providing the Youth Board program. My daughter has learned the procedures and effectiveness of structure and making a difference through serving on the United Way Youth Board. She had continued what she has learned from United Way in other areas of her life which include college, service work, and commitment to her school and family. I am pleased that she has learned through her experiences participating with United Way. Continue your good work!" —Noreen Martin, CEO of Martin Resorts, Inc.