EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The City of El Paso is encouraging young people to turn their idealism into action through the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund.
Applications are now open for microgrants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to support youth-led projects that address local climate challenges and advance priorities in the Chihuahuan Desert Climate Action Plan, the City said.
Applications will be accepted through Oct. 23.
El Paso is one of 300 cities worldwide selected to participate in the initiative and received $50,000 to distribute through local microgrants, creating opportunities for young residents to lead projects that make a difference in their neighborhoods and community, the City said.
The City announced its selection for the program earlier this year.
“This is an opportunity to turn ideas into action and place young people at the center of solutions that will shape El Paso’s future,” Mayor Renard U. Johnson said. “As our community continues important work around resilience, sustainability and youth engagement, this initiative gives young residents a meaningful way to lead, serve, and strengthen the city they call home.”
Projects must be proposed, designed and led by at least two young people ages 15 to 24 and align with one or more Climate Action Plan priorities. Eligible projects may address climate education, heat and water resilience, green infrastructure, community gardens, sustainable food systems, waste reduction, sustainable transportation and other climate solutions.
Applicants will also need a fiscal sponsor, such as a nonprofit, school, youth-serving organization, public agency or other eligible community organization, to receive and administer grant funds.
APPLICATION WORKSHOPS
The City will host three free workshops to help participants develop project ideas, understand application requirements and connect with potential partners and fiscal sponsors. Each workshop will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 8: Wayne Thornton Community Center at Grandview, 3134 Jefferson Ave.
Wednesday, Sept. 9: Chamizal Community Center, 2119 Cypress Ave.
Thursday, Sept. 10: Sylvia Carreon Community Center, 709 Lomita Dr.
Applications must be submitted by Oct. 23 and projects must be completed by April 15, 2027.
For application materials, eligibility requirements, project guidelines and additional information, visit EPClimate.org/Get-Involved.
About Bloomberg Philanthropies
Bloomberg Philanthropies invests in cities and countries around the world to ensure better, longer lives for the greatest number of people. The organization focuses on creating lasting change in five key areas: the Arts, Education, Environment, Government Innovation and Public Health.
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