The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois is now accepting applications for the In Youth We Trust (IYWT) youth grant program until 5:00 p.m. on November 16, 2023. 

Applications must be submitted by youth-led groups or organizations serving youth in Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, or Winnebago Counties, using the forms found at https://cfnil.org/grants/youth. Applications will be reviewed by the In Youth We Trust Council, a group of local high school students who convene monthly at the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois to learn about grantmaking, volunteerism, and community leadership. 

Applicants can request a maximum of $3,000. Recent recipients include Auburn Key Club, Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois, Rochelle Interact Club, and Winnovation FIRST Robotics. 

The IYWT Council looks for projects that:

- Promote collaboration and teamwork,
- Provide creative solutions to community issues,
- Help youth recognize the important role they plan within their communities,
- Have a clear, practical plan for implementation and a realistic budget, and
- Have measurable and meaningful results.

Applicants must be part of a 501(c)3 nonprofit, public institution (such as a school), and/or an organized group carrying out a charitable purpose for the public good. Additionally, youth should be involved in every aspect of the grant process, including project planning, grant writing, and project implementation.

For complete program details and to access the application, visit https://cfnil.org/grants/youth.