The Community Foundation for the Alleghenies’ Youth Philanthropy Interns have released two Requests for Proposals – each of which will award up to $25,000.

The interns have been assessing community needs through research, site visits, and interviews and have determined a need for both a teen marketing campaign and an educational campaign that focuses on obtaining food security that could be implemented in Bedford, Cambria and/or Somerset counties.

The teen marketing campaign will focus on bringing awareness to local events, activities, and businesses geared towards teen interest using modern marketing techniques; specifically, mobile app development and social media campaigns. The program looks to work with young adults from local colleges and high schools to eradicate the usage of the all-too-familiar phrase, “There’s nothing to do here.” RFP FINAL Hometowns Exposed.

The food insecurity educational initiative aims to combat problems faced by many residents in our region and create sustainable and healthy lifestyles for those affected. The program hopes to work with middle and high school students in our area to combat high levels of food insecurity among youth and impoverished families. RFP Final KEYS.

The deadline for proposals to be submitted to the Foundation is noon July 31.Applications will be evaluated by the teams of interns and overseen by Foundation staff. This will culminate with a grant announcement and check presentation on August 7. Organizations designated as 501(c)3 as well as governmental entities from the Bedford, Cambria and Somerset counties may submit proposals. Organizations may apply for either or both of the funding opportunities. If an organization that is not a registered 501(c)3 is interested in either of the programs, they may partner with an approved organization and work together on its implementation.

There are two teams of Youth Philanthropy Interns. One team is led by Kendra Slis and includes: Mikella Buncich, Ryan King, Daniel Klein and Elizabeth Stiffler. The other team is led by Anthony Wagner and includes: Nathan Madison, Abigail Paonessa, Jonathan Skufca, and Kaitlyn Thomas. The interns, as well as Community Foundation staff, will be available for interviews on July 9. In the event of inclement weather, the press conference will be held inside the lobby between Asiago’s Tuscan Italian Restaurant and the Inclined Plane Visitor’s Center.