The Foundation for MetroWest is accepting applications for its Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) program that will take place from September through January in Hopkinton, Natick and Sudbury. High school students who live or learn in MetroWest communities are eligible and welcome to apply. Dates, times and meeting locations vary by program. Program details and applications are available online at yipmetrowest.org/students. The priority application deadline is June 7. Students who submit their applications by June 7 will be provided a program decision by June 14. Students who apply after June 7 will receive an admission decision on a rolling basis, as program space allows.

A unique experiential learning program, YIP provides participants the knowledge to become engaged and informed civic leaders in our community by learning the importance of philanthropy and the needs that exist in our backyard. YIP also helps local youth develop valuable 21st century skills, including critical thinking, understanding budgets, public speaking, consensus building and case-making. Ultimately, the group of 20 students work together to evaluate grant applications and distribute funds to worthy nonprofits working to serve youth in the community.

Since launching in 1997, the Foundation for MetroWest’s Youth in Philanthropy program has educated more than 1,800 students who have granted over $1.2 million to more than 200 MetroWest youth development organizations.