How can we ensure that young people don’t just complain about problems in their city but actually solve them? The answer is the YouthBank, which not only supports ideas but also helps find resources for their implementation.  

The Zhytomyr Community Foundation initiated the creation of the first YouthBank in the region. This became possible thanks to the support of the National Network for Local Philanthropy Development and the Department for Family, Youth, and Sports of the Zhytomyr City Council.  

What is the YouthBank?  

The YouthBank is a unique program that empowers young people to independently identify the changes their community needs and find resources to bring their ideas to life. In other words, YouthBank was created to provide youth with support, funding, and experience, transforming their initiatives into reality.  

“The Zhytomyr Community Foundation launched the YouthBank to engage young people in community development by supporting youth projects. We bring together active, caring individuals who want to take action. They independently, with the support of the Community Foundation, raise resources, undergo training, and receive mentorship,” explains Zhanna Solovyova, Chair of the Zhytomyr Community Foundation.  

But how exactly does the YouthBank work in practice? Let’s take a closer look.  

How Does YouthBank Work?  

The process begins with forming a team that analyzes the needs of young people in the community and raises funds for a grant pool. The next step is identifying priority areas for project support and announcing a grant competition. Participants can submit their ideas, receive funding, and implement them with the help of mentors.  

“The team selection process is now complete. Soon, we will begin analyzing the needs of young people in our community and securing resources for youth projects.  

This spring, we will announce the first grant competition, so I invite Zhytomyr’s active youth to brainstorm project ideas and assemble a team of like-minded individuals.  

And, of course, I encourage everyone to join our future events. Stay updated on everything through our Instagram and Facebook,” shares Sofiia Zinchuk, Coordinator of the Zhytomyr YouthBank.

YouthBanks in the world and Ukraine  

The concept of YouthBanks originated in Europe as a way to involve young people in community development through local philanthropy. In Ukraine, this initiative has been actively implemented since 2015 with the support of ISAR Ednannia, the official representative of YouthBank International. Many Ukrainian communities have adopted these programs, helping young people secure funding for their projects, gain knowledge, and find like-minded peers.  

The first YouthBank in Zhytomyr has already been established. It is an opportunity to take action, learn, and transform the community. If you are young, active, and full of ideas, follow our updates and become part of the team! If you want to support youth initiatives, join us as a patron and help create meaningful change.  

Become a Patron of the YouthBank at the Zhytomyr Community Foundation:  

Recipient Name: “Charitable Organization “Zhytomyr Community Foundation”  

Recipient Code: 38035857  

Recipient Account: UA963052990000026007026416964  

Bank Name: JSC CB “PRIVATBANK”  

Payment Purpose: “Targeted charitable donation for the YouthBank”