Opportunity Fund for Southshire Youth
Forecasted
Opportunity Fund for Southshire Youth supports teenagers in five Vermont communities through youth programs, activities, and gathering spaces that expand opportunity, connection, inclusion, and belonging.
Funder: Vermont Community Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Small grants: $500–$5,000; large grants: up to $10,000, with at most one large award annually
Summary: Supports youth programs, activities, and gathering spaces that foster connection, opportunity, and belonging in five Southshire Vermont communities.
Key Information: Projects must benefit teenagers entering or enrolled in grades 6–12 in the communities served.
Description
The Opportunity Fund for Southshire Youth is a permanently endowed fund at the Vermont Community Foundation, established in 2018 to sustain dynamic and innovative youth programs. It supports creative initiatives that help teenagers in Bennington, North Bennington, Pownal, Shaftsbury, and Woodford become engaged, empowered, and successful in school, work, community, and life.
The published 2026 priorities emphasize youth-led or youth-focused activities and spaces where teenagers can gather, connect, try something new, and experience belonging. Supported work includes themed camps, festivals, intramural sports, casual clubs, extracurricular activities, and formal or informal gathering spaces. Capital projects, new programs, and program or capital expansions are welcome. The fund particularly seeks to expand access for youth facing hardships, with priorities informed by direct engagement with Bennington-area youth.
