Children, Youth, and Families

The test of a compassionate community is how it treats its most vulnerable citizens. Children and youth – perhaps the most vulnerable of all – who grow up feeling cared for will, in turn, grow up into productive citizens who give back to the communities that nurtured them.

Through the KIDS PLUS Program and grant program focus areas, the Northland Foundation works to build positive, caring environments for young children, youth, and families.

The Northland Foundation supports programs that deliver:

• Positive interaction between youth and caring adults
• Early childhood care and education
• Safe, stimulating youth activities for in-school and out-of-school time
• Parenting and grandparenting support
• Promotion of respect, diversity, and inclusiveness, in and out of the classroom
• Improved information about and access to vital services for young people and families
• Youth leadership, civic involvement, volunteerism, and philanthropy

To promote youth volunteerism and charitable giving, the Northland Foundation also offers grants through the Minnesota Power Foundation Youth In Philanthropy Program. This unique grantmaking board consists of 16 students in grades 8-12, and adult mentors, from throughout the region. Community and school groups and nonprofit organizations are invited to submit grant proposals of up to $1,000 for youth-driven projects that are supported by an adult advisor.