NW TCAN Youth Engagement Grants
Once again, the Northwest Tobacco Control Area Network (NW TCAN) will be supporting youth engagement projects with a focus on tobacco prevention. Schools and community groups are eligible to apply for a 2013/2014 Youth Engagement Grant of up to $1000 by Nov. 15, 2013.
“We are pleased to offer the opportunity to schools and community groups in an effort to get youth engaged and help make a difference,” says Corey Wesley, coordinator for the NW TCAN.
In the past, recipients of NW TCAN Youth Engagement grants have used the funds for a variety of worthwhile projects to engage youth and promote a happy and healthy tobacco-free lifestyle. Wesley wants applicants to note that successful grants must focus on those points.
“Tobacco control must be the primary focus of the project in order for the grant application to be considered. We also want to ensure that youth are key players in the planning and execution of the initiative,” says Wesley. “Youth often have insights and ideas that adults would never think of. It’s that creativity and enthusiasm that gives the opportunity for some really exciting programming.”
The NW TCAN’s selection committee will be looking for applications that provide strong rationale for their requests and projects that focus primarily on a tobacco-related issue. In addition to seeking applications in which youth are key players in the project planning, execution and the creativity of the initiative, sustainability of the programming after the grant funds are spent will give applicants a better chance at success. As limited funds are available, the NW TCAN recommends that applicants consider all these factors when preparing their application.
The NW TCAN has funded Youth Engagement Grants since 2008. Schools and community groups interested in the grants can contact Corey Wesley, TCAN Coordinator, Thunder Bay District Health Unit at (807) 625-8816 or corey.wesley@tbdhu.com.
