In 2009, Alaska ICE is offering $500 cash awards (on a reimbursable basis) for qualified youth-led summer service projects to be completed by August 5, 2009; final report due no later than August 15, 2009. Eligible projects involve youth-adult partnerships that plan and implement community-based service activities. Youth-adult partnerships are characterized by youth working with one or more adults through a faith-based or other
community-based organization.

BACKGROUND: The Alaska Initiative for Community Engagement (Alaska ICE) serves as the Youth Advocacy branch of the Association of Alaska School Boards (AASB). Through the 40 Developmental Assets and community engagement efforts, Alaska ICE provides Alaskans the resources and assistance to work together to prepare Alaska’s children and youth for the future.

An expected outcome of the summer service project is an increase in youth developmental assets. Although not necessary to obtain the award, the project organizers are encouraged to participate in a one-hour workshop by Alaska ICE staff to introduce participants to the forty developmental assets and how they can be used in by faith-based and community organizations. However, if attending the workshop is not possible, other arrangements can be made to share the information.

WHO MAY APPLY: Alaska faith-based and other community non-profit organizations. Funding is available on a reimbursable basis only (see below for details.) Youths and adults must write the application together. Groups whose members are over the age of 18 must include work with youth under the age of 18 as part of their project.