YAC Membership Application

We’re excited to announce that applications to our Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) are open March 12-April 13. 

Thank you for your interest in serving on the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). 

Our YAC was started in 1991 with the help of a $1 million grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. The YAC helps the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan address the needs of youth through grants to local programs and projects that promote youth leadership in our region. YAC members also learn about philanthropy, volunteerism and community leadership.

Interested in becoming a YAC Member?

Start Your Application

What Does the YAC Do?

Every year the Youth Advisory Committee evaluates grant applications and makes recommendations to fund grants of $5,000 – $20,000 to youth organizations in our local communities.

  • We review grant proposals from organizations that benefit young people in southeast Michigan
  • We visit with the grant recipients to learn how the funds will be used.
  • We meet with those impacted by our outreach to help broaden our perspectives on community needs.
  • We participate in state-wide leadership training opportunities, such as the Council of Michigan Foundations Summer Leadership Conference.
  • We engage in learning opportunities to broaden our perspectives on needs of our region’s youth.
  • We come together once a month for meetings or events.

What are the important deadlines?

  • Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. EST on Monday, April 13.
  • Application decisions will be announced in May.

Who should apply?

We are looking for young people who care about their communities and want to grow as leaders, not only those with top grades or long activity lists. 

We especially encourage applicants who reflect the diversity of southeast Michigan, including differences in background, lived experience, and academic achievement. 

Minimum Membership Requirements for New Applicants:

  • You must be able to secure transportation to and from in-person meetings and activities.
  • Attend the full-day, in-person orientation in August.
  • Be enrolled in high school.
  • Be a resident of Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw or Wayne County.
  • Be committed to learning about philanthropy, volunteerism and community leadership.
YAC Home YAC Grants

Questions? Feel free to contact

Ashley Jackson

Program Officer, Youth and Education
313.961.6675
Contact Ashley