County Commissioners Launch Fourth Round of INSPIRE Youth Initiative Grants to Empower and Protect Youth

The Fourth Round Launches Feb 4!

Hamilton County, OH - In an ongoing effort to reduce youth violence and provide safe, enriching opportunities for children and teens, the Hamilton County Commissioners are launching the highly anticipated fourth round of the INSPIRE Youth Initiative Grants. This popular program has already provided over $700,000 in funding to assist more than 23,000 youth through 145 grassroots programs.

The INSPIRE Grant program provides up to $5,000 in non-cash funding to community-based organizations, churches, nonprofits, youth groups, and other grassroots initiatives that support low- to moderate-income youth. These grants cover the costs of supplies, uniforms, equipment, and enrichment activities, creating opportunities that improve the physical, mental, and social well-being of Hamilton County youth.

“The INSPIRE grants are small investments with big returns,” said Commissioner Summerow Dumas, the founder of this initiative. “These grants serve as a violence prevention strategy- a way to support organizations on the ground who are making a real difference in the lives of our young people. Now more than ever, we need to focus on ensuring our youth stay on track toward success.”

Since its launch in May 2023, the program has become highly sought after, with applications exceeding the availability of funds in previous rounds. This ongoing expansion underscores the Commissioners’ commitment to closing gaps in accessing supportive programming.

“These grants are an aggressive and proactive step toward supporting positive youth activities before negative influences take hold,” said Commission President Denise Driehaus. “We are investing in the future of Hamilton County by empowering the organizations that create safe spaces and enriching opportunities for our kids and teens.”

Commissioner Alicia Reece emphasized, “Beyond buying uniforms or instruments, this program fuels the power of community to uplift our children. We are investing in those smaller organizations that are doing the work but need a little bit of help.”

Eligibility Requirements:

·       Operate a valid, ongoing youth program.

·       Be located within Hamilton County limits.

·       Serve youth from low- to moderate-income households.

·       Submit a completed application.

·       Provide photos, data, or documentation of how funds are used and demonstrate youth engagement.

The INSPIRE Youth Initiative helps organizations address community needs from the ground up, supporting creative and effective programs such as social clubs, sports teams, educational outings, and cultural events.

 Applications for the fourth round of funding are now open, with up to 50 grants available in this round. For more information or to apply, please visit www.HamiltonCountyOhio.gov/Inspire or contact Alice Bledsoe at Alice.Bledsoe@hamiltoncountyohio.gov.

Hear from previous recipients of the INSPIRE grant program: 

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