Youth and Philanthropy Initiative

YPI empowers #drivingchange to understand the social issues in their communities, the charities addressing these, and the role young people can play in making a difference.

For many it opens their eyes to the world outside of the classroom. For others, it gives them the opportunity to represent a cause about which they are already passionate.

YPI raises awareness and funds for local social service charities, enhances school and community connections, and gives young people a meaningful platform from which to advocate.

YPI provides a rich learning opportunity. Charity selection and presentation preparation are student-led, giving young people the opportunity to develop key skills, explore strengths, deploy creative approaches, and grow as active, contributing citizens.

YPI data shows that teachers almost unanimously agree that the programme is increasing empathy, as well as creating a better understanding of communities. The surveying also shows it is developing creativity, teamwork, and resilience.

YPI has been cited in a number of HMIE reports as an example of best practice in citizenship education.

YPI is a funded and fully-resourced programme which works closely with partners in education to realise the depth and breadth of opportunities from the experience. Through a wide range of support interventions, including tailored development and embedding sessions with regional staff, webinars and a suite of targeted, impactful resources – The Wood Foundation is committed to the development and sharing of best practice with its 280 partner schools.

Young people are asked to independently identify social issues impacting their community and a local charity addressing this need. Pupils then contact their chosen charity, with teams encouraged to meet their charities either at their school or in the charity’s setting to learn more about its services and impact.

Each team of young people deliver a presentation to a panel of judges in a bid to secure their school’s £3,000 grant to be given to their chosen charity.

For a charity to be eligible for a YPI grant, they must be OSCR registered. The young people advocating for the charity must be able to tell the judges the impact the £3,000 grant will have on people in the local community. The Wood Foundation asks young people to be clear and specific on what the funds will be spent on, who will benefit, and, where possible, quantify the impact the grant will make.

The YPI National Event – a day of reflection, celebration and inspiration – will take place on Wednesday 11 June at Perth Concert Hall. For frequently asked questions (FAQs), please click here.

The growth and sustainability of YPI is supported by a range of like-minded funding partners who dedicate funds and time to empowering young people in Scotland. As funding partners, organisations play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of changemakers. If you would like to discuss the opportunity to support YPI nationally or in your local area, please get in touch with our Partnerships Manager Beth Reid on bethany.reid@thewoodfoundation.org.uk