MAYVILLE, N.Y. — The Chautauqua County Youth Bureau is pleased to announce the availability of funding to support programs that promote positive youth development for young people under the age of 21.
The funding provided by The Office for Children and Family Services (OCFS) and administered through the Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services (DMHSS), is designed to strengthen programs that help youth build the skills, relationships, and experiences necessary to thrive in school, work, and their communities.
Positive youth development programs play a critical role in fostering leadership, civic engagement, educational achievement, workforce readiness, healthy decision-making, and social-emotional well-being. Through this funding, Chautauqua County seeks to expand access to high-quality services, supports and opportunities that empower youth to reach their full potential and become active, engaged members of their communities.
OCFS encourages municipalities to fund a wide variety of youth development programs including, but not limited to, the following:
• Citizenship and Civic Engagement (youth leadership, cultural competency, race equity, etc.).
• Community (youth activism, mentoring, community service, etc.).
• Economic Security (career development, life skills, etc.).
• Physical and Emotional Health (seasonal activities like summer camp, opportunities for creative expression, etc.).
• Education (“out-of-school time” programming to support educational engagement like drop-out prevention services, etc.).
• Safe Harbour/Anti-Trafficking activities, prevention, and supports.
• Family Supports (conflict resolution supports like restorative practices, etc.).
Eligible applicants should be from interested non-profit community-based organizations, cities, towns, and villages within Chautauqua County with a federal identification number and charity registration number. The grant program will run during the program term of October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027.
Eligible organizations are encouraged to apply for funding to support programs and activities that provide safe environments, meaningful mentorship, skill development, community involvement, and other youth-focused services that promote positive outcomes.
“Investing in our young people is an investment in the future of Chautauqua County,” said Carmelo Hernandez, Commissioner of Social Services. “These programs help youth develop confidence, resilience, leadership skills, and a sense of connection to their communities, laying the foundation for lifelong success.”
Organizations interested in applying should review the funding guidelines and application materials available through the Chautauqua County Youth Bureau at chautauquacountyny.gov/YouthGrantFunds. The materials can also be requested by emailing kimballn@chqgov.com. The application period begins June 9th and closes July 9th at 3:30 p.m. Funding decisions and awards will be based upon New York State Office of Children and Family (OCFS) guidelines.
