Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Camp Courant Incorporated
Legal Name (if Different): Hartford Camp Courant
Also Known As: Hartford Camp Courant
Mailing Address: 96 Batterson Park Road
City: FARMINGTON
State: CT
Postal Code: 06032-2580
Main Phone: 8606772355
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://campcourant.org/
Employer ID Number: 06-1018155
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3) public charity

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/12/2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Camp Courant Summer Learning & Youth Development Program
Project Description:

The Camp Courant Summer Learning & Youth Development Program provides a safe, structured, and enriching summer experience for approximately 400 Hartford youth ages 5–14, prioritizing children from low-income families. Operated at no cost to families, the program helps prevent summer learning loss while supporting the social-emotional growth, health, and overall well-being of young people during out-of-school time.

Campers participate in a full-day schedule that blends academic enrichment, hands-on learning, and youth development activities. Daily programming includes literacy and math enrichment, STEAM exploration, arts and music, swimming instruction, sports and recreation, gardening and nature education, and financial literacy. These activities are intentionally designed to strengthen academic skills, build confidence, and promote teamwork, leadership, and positive peer relationships.

The program also integrates strong social-emotional supports. A licensed social worker and trained staff provide structured SEL activities, small-group support, and individual interventions when needed, helping campers build resilience, manage emotions, and develop healthy coping skills.

In addition, Camp Courant addresses critical health and wellness needs by providing nutritious meals and snacks daily, as well as weekly take-home groceries for families. Transportation is provided from neighborhoods across Hartford, ensuring equitable access for youth who might otherwise be unable to attend.

Funding from the Hermanowski Foundation will support program materials and enrichment supplies used across academic and youth development activities. This investment will help ensure consistent, high-quality programming that supports learning, wellness, and positive youth development for Hartford children throughout the summer.

Total Project Budget: 885,381

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Committed support for the Camp Courant Summer Learning & Youth Development Program includes a mix of foundation, corporate, individual, and public funding. Key committed sources include foundation grants and corporate contributions from regional partners such as Bank of America, Webster Bank, and Delta Dental, as well as individual donors and annual fundraising events including our Board-led campaigns. State and local support also helps sustain core summer operations. Potential sources include pending requests to regional and national foundations and corporate funders that support youth development, education, wellness, and food access initiatives. Camp Courant continues to pursue diversified funding through grant opportunities, corporate sponsorships, and earned revenue generated through facility rentals and special events outside the camp season.

Project Duration: June–August 2026, with all grant funds expended within one year of award.
Geographical Area Served: Hartford, Connecticut, with a focus on youth from historically underserved neighborhoods across the city.
Age Group To Be Served: Ages 5–14 (elementary and middle school youth)

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Diana
Contact Last Name: Blandin
Contact Title: Grant Writer
Contact Phone: 8606772355
Contact Email: Dblandin@campcourant.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Partners for Youth with Disabilities
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 89 South Street, Suite 103
City: Boston
State: MA
Postal Code: 02111
Main Phone: 617-556-4075
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.pyd.org
Employer ID Number: 222627798 
Organization Tax Status: 501c(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/12/2026
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Career Readiness for youth with disabilities
Project Description:

Partners for Youth with Disabilities (PYD) is seeking a $10,000 grant to support the Career Readiness program, through which over 300 youth with disabilities gain skills and opportunities relating to job-readiness, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship; real world experiences; and networking with business mentors. PYD works to close the economic gap experienced by people with disabilities by preparing low-income young adults with disabilities to transition successfully to employment, postsecondary education, and independent living through sustainable pathways that connect education, training, and employment through skill building and mentorship.

Participants complete an academic year long course focused on job-readiness, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. The curriculum emphasizes employee soft skills, stress and time management, interview skills, professional behavior and communication, problem solving, conflict resolution, self-advocacy, and reasonable accommodations in the workplace. By the conclusion of the program, students create practical tools to support their job search, such as professional resumes, tailored cover letters, and sample job applications. Classroom learning is supplemented with real world experiences such as job shadows, guest lectures, mock interviews, and internships. Students have opportunities to network with business professionals and practice skills through these hands-on learning experiences. Professional mentors support and guide youth to be successful in employment or postsecondary education.

Youth with disabilities who complete our career readiness training are better prepared for success in the workplace with the skills and confidence gained. Last fiscal year, 67% of youth obtained paid employment as a result of participation in the program, and our long-term survey of previous PYD participants revealed that 67% of participants are employed, compared with an employment rate of 22% for all adults with disabilities, (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor). In addition, 84% of previous participants expressed that PYD helped them feel more competent in their abilities in the workplace.  

Total Project Budget: $748,503

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Committed funders include: MassAbility- $373,000 City of Boston Mayor’s Office of Jobs & Community Service (EDIC) Workforce Development – $56,000 Charlestown Community Impact Fund – $9,000 PwC Foundation $20,000 American Student Assistance – $100,000 Ludcke Foundation – $50,000 Mildred’s Dream Foundation – $25,000 Needham Bank – $5,000 Liberty Mutual Foundation – $10,000 TJX Foundation – $29,900 Potential funders include: Nordstrom Cares – $20,000 Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation – $20,000 Main Street Group Foundation – $15,000 M & T Bank Charitable Foundation – $20,000 Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation – $150,000 Moses Kimball Fund – $10,000 Catalyze Challenge – $50,000 Bank of America Charitable Foundation $50,000 Educating All Learners Alliance $35,000

Project Duration: January 1, 2027 to December 31, 2027
Geographical Area Served: Greater Boston area
Age Group To Be Served: 14-21

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Dr.
Contact First Name: Lynn
Contact Last Name: Gonsalves
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 617-556-4075
Contact Email: development@pyd.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Reclaimed Hope Initiative
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: Reclaimed Hope, RHI
Mailing Address: PO Box 2432
City: Charlottesville
State: Virginia
Postal Code: 22902
Main Phone: 8045521230
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.reclaimedhopeinitiative.org
Employer ID Number: 84-2649694
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 12, 2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Camp Hope–More Than a Summer Camp
Project Description:

Camp Hope is an inclusive, trauma-informed summer day camp operated by Reclaimed Hope Initiative for children ages 5–12 who have disabilities, complex behavioral needs, and/or histories of foster care, adoption, or trauma. Many of these children are unable to participate safely in traditional camps due to staffing limitations and the lack of appropriate accommodations. Camp Hope is designed specifically to meet those needs while also providing meaningful respite for caregivers.

Camp operates eight weeks during the summer, Monday through Friday, in a structured, supportive environment with trained staff and high supervision ratios. Programming focuses on building social-emotional skills, confidence, and peer connection through hands-on activities, movement, creative expression, and therapeutic supports. Camp Hope also partners with specialized providers to embed enrichment and therapy-informed experiences that help campers practice emotional regulation, communication, and relationship skills in real time.

A core goal of Camp Hope is equitable access. Reclaimed Hope Initiative uses a sliding-scale approach and scholarships so that low- and moderate-income families can participate, reducing barriers for families already managing significant medical, caregiving, and financial strain. By offering a safe place where children can thrive—and caregivers can rest and recharge—Camp Hope strengthens the entire family system and supports long-term stability.

Total Project Budget: 255,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Camp tuition, City of Charlottesville Vibrant Fund, Albemarle County Human Services Grant, Bama Works, Go the Distance Fund, Manning Family Foundation, Anderson Rogers Foundation, Hope Fest(fundraiser), 10 days of Hope (fundraiser)

Project Duration: June-August 2027
Geographical Area Served: Through its programs, RHI serves families in Charlottesville City and Albemarle County, as well as the counties of Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, Nelson, and Augusta. All in Virginia
Age Group To Be Served: 5-12

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs
Contact First Name: Allison
Contact Last Name: Spillman
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 773-330-8997
Contact Email: allison@reclaimedhopeinitiative.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Joyful Roots Foundation Inc
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 7961 W. McNab Road
City: Tamarac
State: Florida
Postal Code: 33321
Main Phone: 1-954-701-4987
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.joyfulroots.org
Employer ID Number: 39-4055713
Organization Tax Status: Non- profit 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 11, 2026
Requested Amount: 10000

Project Title: Support for Summer Enrichment for Neurodivergent Youth
Project Description:

The Joyful Roots Summer Camp Program was created to address a critical gap in summer programming for neurodivergent youth, particularly children and adolescents with autism and related developmental differences. While many summer camps exist, few are equipped to meet diverse learning styles or provide the specialized support necessary for neurodivergent learners to thrive. Without appropriate summer programming, many children experience regression in communication, social engagement, independence, and functional life skills during the months when school-based services are unavailable.

Joyful Roots provides a safe, structured, and enriching environment where neurodivergent learners can continue developing essential skills while enjoying a joyful and engaging summer experience. The program combines recreation, social interaction, and therapeutic support in a setting designed specifically for children who benefit from individualized teaching approaches and consistent routines.

What distinguishes Joyful Roots from traditional summer camps is its clinically informed, evidence-based design. The program is staffed by highly trained professionals, including Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), Certified Speech-Language Pathologists, and Licensed Occupational Therapists. These specialists collaborate to integrate Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech-language development, and occupational therapy principles into daily activities, ensuring that learning opportunities are embedded naturally throughout the camp experience.

Campers participate in structured yet joyful programming that includes small-group instruction, social skills practice, creative activities, and community-based experiences. Predictable routines and individualized supports help campers feel secure and confident while encouraging them to explore new skills, build friendships, and develop independence.

Safety, dignity, and respect are central to the program’s design. Low staff-to-camper ratios allow for individualized attention and ensure that each participant receives the support needed to engage fully in camp activities. Through this approach, Joyful Roots fosters meaningful growth while celebrating the unique strengths of every child.

By combining evidence-based interventions with inclusive recreational programming, Joyful Roots Summer Camp helps participants strengthen communication, build independence, develop friendships, and experience the joy of learning in a supportive community.

Total Project Budget: 72,300

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): 5,000 dollars committed by individual donors. Potential funds from the James J. Colt Foundation, Abelard Foundation, Amaturo Family Foundation, and the Asofsky Foundation

Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Broward County, Florida
Age Group To Be Served: 6 to 21 years old

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.):
Contact First Name: Michele
Contact Last Name: Tull
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 954-701-4987
Contact Email: info@joyfulroots.com

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: In Response Productions
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 6995 Hillock Drive
City: Colorado Springs
State: CO
Postal Code: 80922
Main Phone: 719-678-6811
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://InResponseProductions.org
Employer ID Number: 41-2852315
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 12, 2026
Requested Amount: 2000

Project Title: Emerging Voices: Youth Music & Creative Formation Cohort
Project Description:

Emerging Voices is a 10‑week creative formation program that equips elementary‑ and middle‑school youth—particularly students from underrepresented and under‑resourced communities—to discover their voice through songwriting, music production, mentorship, and public performance. Each cohort guides 5-10 young artists through a full creative cycle: writing original songs, learning recording and production skills, collaborating with peers, and releasing their work on major streaming platforms through IRP’s nonprofit record label.

The program is intentionally designed to cultivate confidence, belonging, and creative agency. Youth receive hands‑on instruction from professional artists and producers, access to a recording studio, and weekly formation sessions that integrate artistic development with emotional wellness, leadership, and community‑building. The cohort culminates in a public showcase where students perform their original work for family, peers, and community partners.

Funding from the Hermanowski Family Foundation will directly support scholarships for youth with financial need, recording equipment, producer stipends, and venue costs for the Spring/Summer 2027 and Fall 2027 cohorts. As IRP expands Emerging Voices into a flagship model, this investment will ensure that cost is never a barrier for young artists who deserve access to high‑quality creative education and a supportive community that champions their stories.

Total Project Budget: $4000 (Spring/Summer + Fall 2027 cohorts combined)

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Program fees; individual donors; music revenue from student releases

Project Duration: January 2027 – October 2027
Geographical Area Served: Colorado Springs, CO
Age Group To Be Served: 8-15

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr.
Contact First Name: James
Contact Last Name: Butler
Contact Title: Chief Executive Officer
Contact Phone: 970-388-9356
Contact Email: james@inresponseproductions.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Seton Youth Services
Legal Name (if Different): Mother Seton House Inc
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 101 N. Lynnhaven Road, Suite 101
City: Virginia Beach
State: VA
Postal Code: 23452
Main Phone: 757-963-5795
Main Fax: 757-963-5852
Organization Website: www.setonyouthservices.org
Employer ID Number: 54-1250483
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/12/2026
Requested Amount: $7,500

Project Title: Seton’s Critical Services
Project Description:

With a mission to provide a safe haven, counseling and outreach services, 24 hours per day without charge, to assist youth in crisis throughout Hampton Roads, with the goal of reuniting families, Seton Youth Services is essential to transforming the lives of youth and their families. Seton staff are assisting youth with lived experience of abuse, victimization, human trafficking or exploitation, medical conditions, and family homelessness making them more likely to become involved with juvenile justice or child welfare Systems. In the worst-case scenario, Seton’s services protect vulnerable youth from being victimized, exploited or forced into prostitution, or turning to violence, gang affiliation and crime to survive.

Seton provides Emergency Shelter services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for youth ages 9 to 18. Three nutritious daily meals are prepared on site, and residents receive needed clothing and supplies free of charge. At shelter intake, youth undergo an assessment and receive initial counseling. The initial assessment forms the basis for case management activities and counseling moving forward. Seton Case Managers direct weekly individual, group and family counseling sessions. Family sessions focus on maintaining the close bond between parent and child.

Youth work toward specific agreed upon outcomes including improved relationships with family, healthy ways to deal with anger, and a return home or to a safe appropriate placement. Case Managers also connect residents with community resources. The School Liaison ensures residents are enrolled in the appropriate school, educational needs are communicated, records are transferred if needed and transportation is in place. Seton shelters operate 24 hours per day with morning, evening, and overnight Residential Counselors overseeing the residents’ care. A consulting psychologist is available as needed. Shelter stays are typically up to 21 days, but residents can remain longer of needed for a successful resolution.

Total Project Budget: $873,281

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Committed revenues to date include: Private Foundation, $62,500 The Blocker Foundation: $50,000 Capital Group: $25,000 Thrift Store USA, $125,000 Seton’s Silks & Irons’ Kentucky Derby Celebration Event, $30,000 Virginia Beach Community Organization Grant $30,000 Virginia Housing Homeless Assistance Grant, $20,000 Hampton Roads Community Foundation, $15,000 Norfolk Southern $15,000 Langley Federal Credit Union Foundation, $10,000 Miscellaneous donor awards $9,550 Papa John’s $3,500 Priority Automotive Charities, $10,000 Health and Human Services RHY Federal Grant Program (Boys’ Shelter) $250,000 Health and Human Services RHY Grant Program (Girls’ Shelter) $250,000 Pending sources include: Southeast Virginia Community Foundation, $10,000 SpartanNash Foundation, $4,000 Union Home Mortgage Foundation, $5,000 Hampton Roads Community Foundation, $16,198 Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, $10,000 Gwathmey Memorial Trust, $25,000 AE Foundation, $10,000

Project Duration: 7/1/2026-6/30/2027
Geographical Area Served: Hampton Roads, Virginia including the cities of Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth and surrounding areas. Seton will occasionally serve youth from out of state as well.
Age Group To Be Served: 9-18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Jennifer
Contact Last Name: Sieracki
Contact Title: Chief Executive Officer
Contact Phone: 757-963-5795 ext 105
Contact Email: jsieracki@setonyouthservices.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Power of the Mind Foundation
Legal Name (if Different): Power of the Mind
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: PO Box 5926
City: Huntsville
State: Alabama
Postal Code: 35814
Main Phone: 256-503-9660
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.powerofthemindfoundation.org
Employer ID Number: 84-4136246
Organization Tax Status: Nonprofit

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 03/11/2026
Requested Amount: 5000

Project Title: Junior Leader Program
Project Description:

Within our junior leader program, we have developed a structured hand zone in engaging curriculum that builds essential skills like communication. Decision making in conflict resolution. We bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application by mentorship, community service and peer to peer coaching. Our target group size is 30 children. This insures that we foster closer bonds and greater impact amongst the children. We collaborate with schools, local businesses, mentors, create field trip. Opportunities we pair the youth with professionals who can provide guidance in real world insights, through this our goal is to develop future community leaders
and foster civic engagement.

Total Project Budget: 7000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Just 4 The Kidz Daycare College

Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Huntsville, Alabama
Age Group To Be Served: 13 years to 18 years

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Paulette
Contact Last Name: Edwards
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 256-361-5387
Contact Email: Powerofthemind99@gmail.com

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: VITENDO4AFRICA
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 7220 N. Lindbergh Blvd
City: HAZELWOOD
State: MO
Postal Code: 63042
Main Phone: 3142520484
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.vitendo4africa.org
Employer ID Number: 451267554
Organization Tax Status: 501 c 3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 03/11/2026
Requested Amount: 10000

Project Title: Ubuntu Youth Leadership & Mentorship Program
Project Description:

The Ubuntu Youth Leadership & Mentorship Program empowers immigrant and refugee youth ages 12–21 across the United States through mentorship, leadership training, and culturally responsive community engagement. Guided by the African philosophy of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—the program emphasizes shared responsibility, community connection, and the development of strong social and leadership skills.

Many immigrant youth face unique challenges, including language barriers, social isolation, limited access to mentorship, and navigating educational and career pathways in a new country. These challenges can impact academic performance, emotional wellbeing, and self-confidence. The Ubuntu Youth Program addresses these gaps by providing structured mentorship, peer learning circles, leadership workshops, and guidance from community leaders and professionals.

Participants engage in interactive sessions focused on personal growth, civic responsibility, academic support, career exploration, and mental health awareness. The program also strengthens parent and community engagement, providing families with culturally informed tools to support youth development and wellbeing.

Through this approach, youth gain confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging while building supportive networks with peers, mentors, and community members. The program creates a replicable model that can be adapted for immigrant youth in other communities nationwide, promoting long-term empowerment, cultural pride, and resilience.

By investing in immigrant youth leadership, the Ubuntu Youth Leadership & Mentorship Program not only supports individual participants but also strengthens families and communities, fostering a generation of empowered young leaders who contribute positively to their schools, neighborhoods, and society.

Total Project Budget: $75,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): $25,000 from Vitendo4Africa’s own funds and in-kind support are committed, while grants from NEO Philanthropy, Hermanowski Family Foundation, Taylor Family Foundation, and Emerson Charitable Trust are potential sources.

Project Duration: One year
Geographical Area Served: Geographical Area Served: Vitendo4Africa primarily serves immigrant and refugee youth and families in St. Louis City and County, Missouri, while also engaging communities and participants across the United States.
Age Group To Be Served: The Ubuntu Youth Leadership & Mentorship Program will serve youth ages 12–21, including middle school, high school, and early college students.

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): MR
Contact First Name: GEOFFREY
Contact Last Name: SOYIANTET
Contact Title: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Contact Phone: 3142520488
Contact Email: info@vitendo4africa.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Sacramento Youth Center
Legal Name (if Different): Sacramento Youth Center
Also Known As: Sac Youth Center
Mailing Address: 1901 Del Paso Blvd.
City: Sacramento
State: CA
Postal Code: 95815
Main Phone: 9162481081
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.sacyouthcenter.org
Employer ID Number: 84-3656643
Organization Tax Status: 501 c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/11/2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Summer Bash 2026
Project Description:

Dear Hermanowski Family Foundation Board,

Sacramento Youth Center (SYC) respectfully requests $10,000 to support Summer Bash, our annual back to school event serving approximately 160 youth and their families in the North Sacramento communities. SYC is a grassroots, youth centered behavioral health and development organization serving more than 2,000 young people ages 14–24 each year. Our mission is to equip youth with the tools, support, and hope they need to enter the school year safely and confidently.

Summer Bash provides backpacks, school supplies, games, entertainment, a hot meal, and a safe community gathering during a period when youth violence and disengagement typically increase. Many of the young people we serve face challenges such as poverty, unstable housing, trauma, and elevated risk of dropping out. For them, this event is a joyful, stabilizing experience that reconnects them to caring adults, peer mentors, and the larger SYC support network.

Youth stories illustrate the event’s impact. One student who struggled academically and faced significant personal challenges reconnected with SYC through Summer Bash and began meeting with a peer mentor—ultimately earning more credits in two months than the prior semester and receiving consistent prenatal and academic support. Another student who once felt hopeless found stability, accountability, and a path to college and employment after reconnecting at the event. These stories reflect the power of a single welcoming moment to change the trajectory of a young person’s year.
Summer Bash is youth-designed and youth-led, planned by SYC’s peer mentor team and guided by our Youth Advisory Board, ensuring relevance, accessibility, and cultural connection. Funding will support school supplies, food, youth stipends, activities, entertainment, and staffing for safe event operations.

We would be honored to submit a full application upon request. Thank you for supporting youth and community well being.

Sincerely,

Raquel Shipp
Executive Director/co-Founder

Total Project Budget: $15,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Rotary Club, SYC General Budget

Project Duration: August 2026
Geographical Area Served: Sacramento, California
Age Group To Be Served: 14 – 18 years old

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Raquel
Contact Last Name: Shipp
Contact Title: Executive Director/CoFounder
Contact Phone: 925-698-9321
Contact Email: Raquel@sacyouthcenter.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Sacramento Youth Center
Legal Name (if Different): Sacramento Youth Center
Also Known As: Sac Youth Center
Mailing Address: 1901 Del Paso Blvd.
City: Sacramento
State: CA
Postal Code: 95815
Main Phone: 9162481081
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.sacyouthcenter.org
Employer ID Number: 84-3656643
Organization Tax Status: 501 c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/11/2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Summer Bash 2026
Project Description:

Dear Hermanowski Family Foundation Board,

Sacramento Youth Center (SYC) respectfully requests $10,000 to support Summer Bash, our annual back to school event serving approximately 160 youth and their families in the North Sacramento communities. SYC is a grassroots, youth centered behavioral health and development organization serving more than 2,000 young people ages 14–24 each year. Our mission is to equip youth with the tools, support, and hope they need to enter the school year safely and confidently.

Summer Bash provides backpacks, school supplies, games, entertainment, a hot meal, and a safe community gathering during a period when youth violence and disengagement typically increase. Many of the young people we serve face challenges such as poverty, unstable housing, trauma, and elevated risk of dropping out. For them, this event is a joyful, stabilizing experience that reconnects them to caring adults, peer mentors, and the larger SYC support network.

Youth stories illustrate the event’s impact. One student who struggled academically and faced significant personal challenges reconnected with SYC through Summer Bash and began meeting with a peer mentor—ultimately earning more credits in two months than the prior semester and receiving consistent prenatal and academic support. Another student who once felt hopeless found stability, accountability, and a path to college and employment after reconnecting at the event. These stories reflect the power of a single welcoming moment to change the trajectory of a young person’s year.
Summer Bash is youth-designed and youth-led, planned by SYC’s peer mentor team and guided by our Youth Advisory Board, ensuring relevance, accessibility, and cultural connection. Funding will support school supplies, food, youth stipends, activities, entertainment, and staffing for safe event operations.

We would be honored to submit a full application upon request. Thank you for supporting youth and community well being.

Sincerely,

Raquel Shipp
Executive Director/co-Founder

Total Project Budget: $15,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Rotary Club, SYC General Budget

Project Duration: August 2026
Geographical Area Served: Sacramento, California
Age Group To Be Served: 14 – 18 years old

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Raquel
Contact Last Name: Shipp
Contact Title: Executive Director/CoFounder
Contact Phone: 925-698-9321
Contact Email: Raquel@sacyouthcenter.org