In honor of ServeNebraska’s 30th Anniversary in 2024, the commission introduced the Nebraska Volunteer Week Youth Service Grant initiative to help reverse the decline of volunteer participation across the country in recent years. These small but mighty grants were created to engage young people in taking an active role in strengthening their communities and learning about the importance—and satisfaction—of service.
In its first year, this program funded 10 grant projects across the state, making a tangible impact on neighborhoods and community members. From beautification to social service projects, here’s a look at some of the incredible projects made possible by this grant opportunity:
- McCook High School students cleaned up local parks and recreational areas, enhancing their beauty and safety.
- Lancaster County Teen Council assembled move-out cleaning kits to be donated to families at the People’s City Mission, providing critical supplies for their housing transition.
- Lawrence/Nelson Public Schools students designed and painted a mural on a local building to help revitalize their town’s main street.
- Blue Hill Community Schools 4th Graders cleaned up litter at Crystal Lake and learned about the importance of caring for our state’s natural resources.
Over 480 youth and 180 adults participated in Nebraska Volunteer Week Youth Service Grant projects during Nebraska Volunteer Week, April 21-27, 2024. These volunteers dedicated their time and effort to improving their communities, putting in a collective 1,076 hours of service. We hope these projects mark the beginning of a lifelong commitment to service for these young individuals.
If you have a vision for a project that will improve your community and want to join us in inspiring youth to become active stewards of their community, now is the time to take action! The application cycle for Nebraska Volunteer Week Youth Service Grants is currently open. Learn more about the funding opportunity and fill out the brief application today at www.serve.nebraska.gov/volunteer-week
