Youth Board
Empowering SLO County high school students to become leaders and advocates for positive change in their community
Overview
The United Way of San Luis Obispo County Youth Board empowers youth to become leaders and advocates. Established in 2008, the Youth Board is a community of local youth inspired and empowered to make meaningful contributions, grow as leaders, and create positive change for themselves and those around them. Meet the Youth Board Members
Invest in Our Youth
Join us in empowering the UWSLOC Youth Board as they work to raise essential funds for grants that fuel transformative community programs. Every dollar helps these young leaders learn the value of philanthropy as they support initiatives that address real needs, creating direct, lasting change right where it’s needed most.
Program Highlights
Youth Leadership Development
Offers high school students from San Luis Obispo County the chance to serve in a Board of Directors-style setting, fostering skills in decision-making, teamwork, and leadership.
Grant Allocation and Community Impact
Youth Board members engage in real-world philanthropy by raising funds and awarding grants to youth-led programs that address community needs, encouraging direct and impactful change.
Skills Building and Networking
Members gain experience in fundraising, marketing, and campaigning while connecting with local community leaders, fostering professional relationships, and learning from guest speakers on various community issues.
Community Service and Engagement
Through monthly meetings and events, Youth Board members organize and participate in community service activities, fostering civic responsibility and creating a bridge between youth and adult community leaders.
Inclusive and Youth-Led Governance
Operating under the guidance of United Way, the board is primarily youth-led, allowing students to take ownership of the board’s direction, fundraising events, and communications with the community.
Youth Board Grants
Part of being a Youth Board member is to engage in real-world philanthropy by raising funds and awarding grants to programs that address community needs, encouraging direct and impactful change.
Grant Timeline
- February 3, 2025 – Grant applications open
- March 3, 2025 – Grant applications deadline
- April 2, 2025 – Grants approved
- September 30, 2025 – Projects completed and all funds spent
Past Recipients
2024
- Restorative Partners
- San Luis Obispo Museum of Art
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