In 2011, during a partner nonprofit’s annual strategic planning session, they determined they wanted to help start a philanthropy education. Understanding the magnitude of the project, they reached out to the NPBC and assisted with getting YPIA curriculum developed and taught.
In the Classroom – YPIA is one-day-per-week for six weeks class where council members encourage students to learn about their passions and interests while teaching:
- the history of philanthropy
- the differences in the sectors of society (nonprofit, for profit, government)
- how to interview a philanthropist
- writing a personal mission statement
Classmates are grouped based on common interests and create “case for support” presentations for an imaginary $500 to support local charities. The class votes by secret ballot for the group with the best presentation.
Through a grant from the Community Foundation, winning students and nonprofit receive real money.
Since 2012, more than 1,100 students have received the YPIA curriculum in public and private middle schools throughout Marion County with $25,000 in grants given to nonprofits.