Young Minds Foundation
Growing up is hard. We are here to make it a little easier
Our Story: From Heartbreak to Hope
Young Minds Foundation was born out of profound loss and an unwavering desire to make a difference. In early 2011, we lost a beloved family member to suicide. He was young, vibrant, and full of potential—but he couldn’t see a way out of the darkness. His passing shook us to our core. We were left with painful questions: How did we miss the signs? Where was the help?
As we searched for answers, a deeper truth emerged: there are countless children, teens, and young adults who silently struggle. They need support, mentors, and opportunities—but too often, the resources simply aren’t there.
Today, Young Minds Foundation focuses on supporting grassroots programs making a big impact in underserved communities. For us, youth enrichment means anything that helps a young person grow—emotionally, socially, creatively, or spiritually. Growing up is hard. We’re here to make it a little easier.
Small Programs, Big Plans
Across the country—in rural Mississippi, the hills of Appalachia, and small towns in southeast Missouri and across the country —grassroots programs are quietly transforming lives. They serve children, teens, and young adults through deeply meaningful, community-based initiatives. Some are long-established; many are new, launched in direct response to urgent local needs. Each one makes a real impact—but many are overlooked.
Mentoring for Grassroots Nonprofits
The Young Minds Foundation's Small Programs Initiative equips small nonprofits with essential tools and mentoring support. We work directly with boards, staff, and volunteers to build core competencies in nonprofit leadership, governance, fundraising, and sustainability.
By mentoring the people behind the mission, we ensure that small nonprofits don’t just survive—they grow, thrive, and lead lasting change.
Your Project Matters. Let’s Fund It
Have a project that will positively impact youth and young adults that needs funding? You’re not alone and you don’t have to go it alone. We specialize in helping changemakers like you secure the resources they need to launch, grow, or sustain their most important projects. Whether you’re just getting started or need support expanding your reach, we’re here to help you. Let's see if we're a good fit.
Support Our Mission
Your donation doesn’t just help—it transforms lives.
When you give, you open doors for young people who might otherwise be shut out. You’re not just supporting a program—you’re investing in potential, in hope, and in the future of our communities.
In too many underserved neighborhoods, young people face limited access to education, mentorship, job training, mental health support, and safe spaces to grow. We’re here to change that—and we can’t do it without you.
Your support helps us bridge the gap between where young people are and where they dream to be.