Developing the Next Generation
of Philanthropic Leaders
Through education and real grantmaking, Teen Philanthropy Network helps students learn how to give well — building judgment, empathy, and a lifelong commitment to community impact.
Why Teen Philanthropy Network Exists
Teen Philanthropy Network was founded to help high school students develop the knowledge, judgment, and confidence to become livelong philanthropists. Through a structured two-year program, students learn about philanthropy, research community needs, visit local nonprofits, and make real grant decisions that directly benefit our community. Juniors focus on learning and grantmaking, while seniors take the lead on fundraising to sustain the program. By combining education with real-world application, TPN’s goal is simple: to develop the next generation of philanthropists.
2025 Impact
58 student participants
$10,000 awarded to local nonprofits
4 community organizations supported
Students work together to identify pressing needs in the community, visit local nonprofits, and thoughtfully debate how to allocate funding. These experiences give students real responsibility while helping organizations doing important work locally.
How the Program Works
Junior Year: Learning Through Grantmaking
During their junior year, students explore the fundamentals of philanthropy by learning how nonprofits operate, researching community needs, visiting local organizations, and evaluating grant proposals. Students work together to discuss priorities, debate funding decisions, and ultimately allocate real dollars to nonprofits serving the community.
Senior Year: Leading Through Fundraising
In their senior year, students take responsibility for sustaining the program by leading fundraising efforts. They write appeal letters, meet with donors, submit grant applications, and help organize fundraising events. This experience teaches students how philanthropy is supported over time while ensuring future cohorts can continue the program.
Teen Philanthropy Network
Teen Philanthropy Network (TPN) is an affiliate of the Three Pillars Initiative, and leverages their program design and learning objectives to teach high-schooler juniors and seniors the three pillars of philanthropy: fundraising, responsible giving and volunteering.
TPN high school members take on the responsibility of vetting local organizations and selecting recipients for grants. Through their collective efforts, they aim to make a meaningful impact on their community by supporting deserving non-profits. TPN members are empowered to make grant decisions, awarding >$10K in grants to local non-profits each year.
In addition to the grant-making aspect, TPN is committed to nurturing a spirit of philanthropy among high schoolers, with monthly sessions in their junior and senior years that cover a pre-set curriculum to support their understanding of the philanthropic process. We believe that by involving students in the entire process—from fundraising to grant distribution—we are creating a community where young minds are not only invested in their own growth, but are actively contributing to the well-being of those around them.
