Close the Gap presents Empower YOUth, a first-of-a-kind program designed for high school students to launch their own impact project and make a difference in their communities.

“Empower YOUth reinforced my belief in the power of education to transform lives and strengthened my commitment to community justice and social service."

–Evan M, Empower YOUth 2024 Scholar
12th Grader, West Career and Technical Academy

How Empower YOUth Works

Empower YOUth is a self-led social impact program that guides high school students to turn their ideas into meaningful community action. The program is built for students from all backgrounds who want to make a difference, but may not know where to begin.

With step-by-step toolkits, mentorship, and project support, students gain the tools to lead initiatives such as awareness campaigns, donation drives, and local events.

⭐️ No GPA, resume, or test score requirements

🍎 Choose from 4 unique social impact projects

🌱 Fully self-led and structured

 

Four $500 Inaugural
Empower YOUth Scholarships


Eligible scholars* can apply by Aug 31st after completing the program
*Scholars must complete Empower YOUth, identify as first-generation, low-income, and are currently a U.S. high school student.

Empowering YOU to reach your highest potential

Certificate of Completion for college applications

All students who complete the program will receive a Certification of Completion that can be showcased in college applications and personal statements.

Scholarships available for FGLIs

For the inaugural year, FGLI students who complete the program will be eligible to enter a $500 scholarship giveaway. Eligible students can apply after completing their final checkpoint.

Take the pledge to get started

Acceptance to our program is based on attitude over aptitude. For this reason, the program does NOT require you submit your GPA or test scores. Upon taking the pledge, you will receive an end-to-end guide, including next steps on how to choose and launch your social impact project!

  • Everyone is welcome to take the pledge and launch their impact project

  • Upon the completion of the program, scholars will receive a Certificate of Completion

  • Bonus: FGLI high school students based in the US are eligible to apply our 2025 scholarship

 

Personalized itinerary for success

Week 1 - Take the pledge

Take the pledge and choose from 4 social impact projects: from Community Cleanup, Advocacy Campaign, Civic Engagement, or Item & Donation Drive.

Week 2 - First Checkpoint

Get personalized and tailored support along the way. Every project comes with a structured guide, including research tips and Canva templates.

Week 3 - Second Checkpoint

Whether it’s beautifying your local park or hosting a workshop on financial literacy, we will be checking in every week make to help keep you on track.

Week 4 - Final Reflection

Reflect on the impact you’ve made for and with your community. All students who complete will receive a Certificate of Completion.

Hear from our scholars

Melody O, Empower YOUth 2024 Scholar
11th Grade, Temescal Canyon HS

“Empower YOUth helped me build confidence and communication skills. I felt accomplished knowing I followed through and made a difference in my community."

Sifan B, Empower YOUth Scholar
11th Grade, Castro Valley HS

“Empower YOUth helped me build confidence and communication skills. I felt accomplished knowing I followed through and made a difference in my community."

Make a difference with Empower YOUth

  • Natalie T, Disability Awareness through Visual Art

  • Giselle M, Richmond Community Clean Up

  • Sifan B, Oakland Community Clean Up