Since 2007, the Foundation has awarded 62 Jump Starter grants totaling over $350 thousand.
Competitive Jump Starter grants up to $10,000 are available to emPowerU participants for student-led service-learning projects in communities throughout northwest Missouri and surrounding counties in Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa. Applications are reviewed by an allocations team and are awarded based on qualifying criteria and availability of funds.
Youth have completed Jump Starter grant-supported projects such as:
- Assembling backpacks with hygiene items and blankets for the homeless
- School beautification
- Building community gardens
- Establishing a second-hand clothing and furniture store in a rural community
