How Youth Changemakers Are Making a Difference in Local Communities
Across the country, youth changemakers are stepping up—not just to participate in community projects, but to lead them. From organizing food drives to creating mental health workshops, community initiatives by youths are proving that leadership doesn’t have an age limit.
Whether you're part of a student-led team, connected to a youth-serving organization, or just someone with a bold idea, you don’t have to wait for permission to start. And even though you are young, you can still make a difference in your local communities! You just need a clear vision and the proper support.
What Makes a Youth Changemaker?
A youth changemaker is someone who uses their time, creativity, and passion to improve their community. That might look like:
Hosting a clothing drive at your school
Leading workshops on social justice or sustainability
Creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth
Supporting a friend facing hardship
Launching a mental health awareness campaign
And here’s the thing: These aren’t just passion projects. They’re making a real impact with the people in the community.
Real Youth, Real Impact
At the Contribution Project, we’ve seen the incredible impact when youth lead!
Robert paid the way for his Taekwondo team to go to Nationals!
Sabrina and her team, Residential Sustainability Leaders, worked to promote different ways that students can contribute to making campus a more eco-friendly place by engaging in sustainable practices!
Amber and her team, Building Ourselves through Sisterhood and Service (B.O.S.S), focused on Reflection and Restoration when it comes to mental health
These youth changemakers didn’t wait to be asked. They saw a need and took action—with a little help from youth funding opportunities designed just for them. Read more student project stories.
How to Start Your Own Student-Led Project
Here’s what successful youth changemakers often have in common:
They know their “why.” What problem are you passionate about solving?
They start small. An idea + one committed person = a powerful ripple effect.
They ask for help. No one does it alone—find mentors, team up with friends, or apply for funding.
They stay consistent. Even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard.
Got an Idea? Apply for Funding through The Contribution Project.
The Contribution Project provides $400 awards to support youth-led projects. If you have an idea and the passion to lead it, we want to hear from you.
