Youth Advisory Board

In 1992, the Foley Hoag Foundation established a Youth Advisory Group, enabling trustees and staff to communicate directly with Boston youth who are impacted by racism.

Two years later, in 1994, a Youth Advised Grant Program was established, the first such group in the city. More than sixty young people served on this advisory board and their recommendations accounted for approximately twenty-five percent of the Foundation’s grants.

During this time, trustees and Grants Management Associates staff introduced teen participants to philanthropy and nonprofit activity by providing training in the proposal review process and budget analysis. These youth gained experience in the unique field of philanthropy and community service and learned about nonprofit organizations in the city, philanthropy and its workings and ways in which organizations try to combat racism. Grants from the Youth Advised Grant Program met the general guidelines of the Foundation and directly involved youth in program leadership.

At the end of 2002, the Foundation began the Metro Boston Equity Initiative and to engage more young associates at the law firm in the proposal review process. These changes brought an end to the Youth Advisory Board, at least for now. The trustees remain grateful to the many youthful volunteers who helped set the Foundation's direction during a critical time in the life of the city. Their perspective was unique and persuasive, and remains a lasting influence.