The Jackson Community Foundation aims to encourage youth as philanthropists and to build enduring funds addressing youth-related needs in each community. Inspired by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, it focuses on nurturing philanthropic leadership among youth and supporting initiatives benefiting Jackson County's younger population.
The YAC Mini-Grant program is designed to engage K-12 students in the grantmaking process by allowing them to write grants for classroom projects. Originating at the Jackson Community Foundation (JCF), this initiative aims to introduce students to the concept of a community foundation and its work. The grants support materials, projects, or programs that benefit youth, encourage volunteerism, and enhance the school environment.