SCI’s mission is to strengthen communities by connecting diverse individuals and organizations through civic engagement initiatives. We envision a nation where individuals are strongly connected to their neighbors and play an active role in shaping the destiny of their communities. The core of our programming focuses on community building and youth development: since 2002, SCI has initiated, coordinated and participated in partnerships with local and regional organizations that has resulted in programs that have benefited diverse demographics in Woburn and other Greater Boston communities.

The SCI Youth Grant Pitch Contest is designed to empower young people to identify and address pressing needs they see in the community.  Youth groups in schools, clubs, and after-school programs from Greater Boston are invited to apply by Monday, December 9, 2024 at 11:59PM. 

Selected youth teams commit to a 7-session learning experience during February and March of 2025. With the guidance and support of two volunteer coaches, the team will further develop their project ideas. 

The program will culminate in the Pitch Event, an in-person event on Saturday, April 5, 2024*, where a panel of judges will award grant funds for project implementation to selected groups.  SCI will award up to $20,000 worth of grants among teams selected by the judges for funding. Each youth team will be eligible for a grant award in the range of $1,000-$2,000.

Teams awarded grants will have until January 2026 to complete their respective projects and submit final reports.  

*Location TBD.

The SCI Youth Grant Pitch Contest provides youth in Greater Boston with:

• Monetary Resources & Mentorship to execute their visions for strengthening their communities
• Development of Career Skills such as public speaking, project management and team collaboration
• Bridging Community Connections to like-minded peers & professionals across the region that helps grow their social capital

Interested youth teams can apply to pitch community projects that fit into the following focus areas:

1. Youth teams must be located in Greater Boston (specifically Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk & Suffolk counties). 
2. Youth team members must be ages 11-19.
3. Teams must consist of at least three members, including two team leaders.
4. Participating youth teams must have at least one adult advisor that can serve as a point of contact for SCI and attend the 7 coaching sessions, dress rehearsal, and Pitch Event (Saturday, April 5, 2025, Location TBD).
5. Teams must attend each coaching session and come to the meeting prepared. 
6. Teams, especially the team leaders, are required to attend the YGPC Kickoff, SCI-provided workshops, and the 2025 Pitch Event.  Attendance at the YGPC Kickoff and workshops will grant the team additional points towards their scoring rubric at the Pitch Event.