Youth Engaged in Philanthropy (YEP), a youth-led committee of the DeKalb County Community Foundation, is entering its 15th year in the fall of 2023. Open to all high school students in DeKalb County, YEP aims to improve the quality of life for youth in the area. Membership applications are available from July 1 to September 1, 2023, and the committee is particularly interested in attracting more students from specific high schools in the county.

“YEP is a great way to help youth in the county while having fun,” said Sara Pandess, YEP outreach chair, DeKalb High School. “I’ve been a member for one year and have already had many volunteer and leadership opportunities. Everyone in YEP is extremely welcoming, and it’s a great environment to be in! We’d love to have even more members from DeKalb, Genoa-Kingston, Hinckley-Big Rock, Sandwich, and Somonauk high schools this year.”

YEP offers various opportunities for its members, including monthly meetings, volunteer events, and learning experiences that enhance social and analytical skills. The committee focuses on grantmaking, with members gaining experience analyzing grant applications, conducting site visits, and evaluating the potential impact on other youth in DeKalb County. Last year, YEP granted $14,725 to 13 organizations for youth-serving programs and projects.

Interested students can apply online before the September 1 deadline. For further inquiries or information, they can contact YEP Staff Advisor Noah Nordbrock at 815-748-5383 or noah@dekalbccf.org.

Pictured: YEP is a fun and engaging committee of high school students who want to do good in the community. Members are encouraged to be active participants and take part in leadership opportunities.