Oberlin’s Youth Climate Action Fund to award $100,000 in grant funding

OBERLIN, Ohio — The Youth Climate Action Fund in Oberlin is offering $100,000 in funding to support youth-led climate initiatives, joining a network of more than 90 cities worldwide implementing similar programs.

During the program’s first phase, Oberlin awarded grants to eight projects that engaged more than 200 young people throughout Lorain County and distributed a total of $50,000. Now in the second phase of the program, $100,000 in funding will be awarded in micro grants, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.

An informational session and workshop will be held Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Oberlin Public Library to share details about the funding. No registration is required.

Phase two of the program aims to deepen collaboration, support more impactful projects and inspire the next generation of local climate leaders. To qualify for funding, projects must align with the goals outlined in the Oberlin Climate Action Plan.

Applicants must be between 15 and 24 years old, reside in Lorain County and propose initiatives that directly benefit county residents. Additional eligibility requirements can be found on the city of Oberlin’s website.

Applications, which opened Feb. 1, will continue to be accepted until all funds run out.

Those interested in applying can download an application online or pick up a copy at the Oberlin Center for Sustainability (36 South Prospect Street in Oberlin) or the Community Foundation of Lorain County (9080 Leavitt Road in Elyria).

Completed applications may be submitted to Sustainability Coordinator Linda Arbogast via email, mail or in person at the Oberlin Center for Sustainability.

This story was written with the assistance of AI.