FREDERICKSBURG, VA (June 15, 2026) – The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River
Region is now accepting applications for its 2026 Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) Grant, a $10,000 funding
opportunity awarded annually by local high school students.
The grant is open to nonprofit organizations serving the City of Fredericksburg and the counties of
Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, and King George. Eligible proposals must be youth-led, actively involve
youth in their implementation, or directly serve and benefit young people in the region.
Through the Community Foundation’s Youth in Philanthropy program, high school students gain
firsthand experience in philanthropy, community leadership, and grantmaking. Throughout the fall
semester, participants review applications, learn about community needs, conduct site visits, and
ultimately recommend the recipient of the $10,000 grant.
“The Youth in Philanthropy program gives students a meaningful voice in shaping the future of our
communities,” said Jamee Rodgers, Ph.D., CEO of The Community Foundation. “Each year, they bring
thoughtfulness, curiosity, and a deep commitment to understanding local challenges. We encourage
nonprofits doing impactful work with young people to apply and share their vision with this remarkable
group of student leaders.”
The most recent YIP grant was awarded to Spreading Smiles, a local nonprofit dedicated to addressing
childhood food insecurity and providing essential resources to children and families throughout the
region. The organization received the program’s $10,000 grant following a thorough review and
recommendation process led entirely by YIP students.
“One of the most rewarding parts of this program is watching students engage with nonprofits and
thoughtfully evaluate the many ways organizations are serving young people,” said Jessica Dirks,
Program Specialist at The Community Foundation. “The grant application process gives students an
opportunity to see community challenges up close while helping nonprofits secure resources that can
expand their impact. We look forward to reviewing this year’s proposals and learning about the innovative
work happening throughout our region.”
Founded in 2005, Youth in Philanthropy is both a student leadership program and an endowed fund that
empowers local high school students to become active community leaders. Over the past two decades,
YIP participants have awarded more than 100 grants and distributed over $200,000 to youth-focused
programs across the Rappahannock River Region.
Applications for the 2026 YIP Grant are due by July 30, 2026.
Grant guidelines and the online application can be found at:
For additional information, please contact The Community Foundation at 540.373.9292 or visit
www.cfrrr.org.