Summer Youth Program Grant

Summer Youth Program Grant is sponsored by Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. This grant provides funding to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that deliver summer programming to youth ages 5–18 living within the city's corporate boundaries of Columbus, Ohio.

Summer Youth Program Grant | Columbus Recreation and Parks Department Summer Youth Program Grant Investing in Summer Youth Opportunities The City of Columbus is committed to serving vulnerable, at-risk and underserved youth, particularly those disproportionately impacted by crime, violence and related challenges.

To support this commitment, the Summer Youth Program Grant provides funding to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that deliver summer programming to youth ages 5–18 who live within the city’s corporate boundaries.

Eligible organizations must offer programming during the summer months, May through September, and demonstrate outcomes that support youth development, including improved academic performance, improved health and well-being and/or enhanced career readiness and workplace skills.

Funding priority is given to summer programs that take place in or serve youth who live in the City’s Opportunity Neighborhoods, including the Hilltop, Linden, Franklinton, South Side, Near East, Southeast, Northeast and Northland neighborhoods, as well as the Far East Side and the Far West Side.

2026 Summer Youth Program Grant Funding This grant supports summer programs that serve youth ages 5–18 and is available to eligible nonprofit organizations delivering programming during the summer months. The 2026 Application window is now closed. To be eligible for funding, organizations must be registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the IRS and directly administer the proposed summer program.

Programs must serve youth ages 5–18 who live within the City of Columbus and operate between May and September 2026. A complete application, including a compliant budget and all required documentation, must be submitted by the deadline. Organizations that do not meet these requirements will not be reviewed.

Participation throughout the application process helps support a smooth and successful experience. Organizations are encouraged to review the key dates below and plan ahead as they prepare to apply. Monday, Jan.

12, 2026, at noon: Grant application opens Monday, Jan. 26, 2026, at noon: Virtual grant application information session Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, at 5 p.

m. : In-person grant application information session Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, at 5 p.

m. : Grant application deadline Find answers to common questions about eligibility, application requirements and more. For questions or assistance, email summeryouth@columbus.

gov. View FAQs on Summer Youth Grant Funding