The Oswego City-County Youth Bureau is once again accepting applications for 2024 mini-grants. Not-for-profit organizations can submit applications for up to $1,000 for youth activities by Friday, March 1.

“Mini grants have proven to be a successful way to engage different community partners to work together to meet the needs of our children and families,” said Brian Chetney, executive director of the Oswego City-County Youth Bureau. “It’s also a great opportunity to organize interesting projects that address the diverse interests of youth in Oswego County.”

Mini grants offer up to $1,000 in funding for youth activities or projects planned during hours when school is not in session. Proposed activities must take place before the end of September 2024 and provide a direct service to children and families in Oswego County.

Projects must have clear and measurable goals and address the diverse interests of youth. For example, past grants have been awarded to establish creative workshops for children to express themselves through various forms of art; to provide AmeriCorps members to teach fitness and nutrition activities to youth around the county; and to support summer reading programs to prevent the loss of literacy skills during the summer months.

Not-for-profit groups and organizations such as schools, libraries, municipalities, churches and other community agencies and associations can apply for mini grant funding for their proposed youth activity. Organizers are encouraged to involve youth in the planning and implementation of the project.

The grants are funded by Oswego County government and the New York State Office of Children and Family Services youth development program.

Those interested in applying for a mini grant are encouraged to contact Tiffany Halstead at the Oswego City-County Youth Bureau to discuss their ideas, receive assistance and obtain an application. Call 315-349-3590, email tiffany.halstead@oswegocounty.com or download an application from the website https://youthbureau.oswegocounty.com/.