500K helps local youth at a vital time

AUSTIN (KXAN) -
At a time when residents are asking for more youth programs in Austin, a group of local women are on the verge of awarding five youth non-profits with $102,000 each.

Impact Austin announced their ten finalists. The philanthropic group is comprised of 510 local women who each donate $1,000. Their money is pooled together to provide grants for five non-profits.

Local non-profits apply for the grants and must have a specific program to pitch. They complete an intense interview process over the course of several months. This year, 117 non-profits applied.

A program called Urban Roots provided through Youth Launch was one of the ten finalists. They want to use the grant money to expand their urban organic farm program that employs youth ages 14-18, with an emphasis in East Austin. They plant, grow and sell vegetables to the community.

"Our last few years we've had 45 applicants for 15 spots and we're really looking to be able to provide more jobs for youth in Austin," said Mike Evans, Urban Roots Program Director.

Muhammed Mbay had never seen squash or eggplant before.

"I think I'm doing pretty good, I'm learning a lot,” said Muhammad while washing fresh-picked green beans.

The ninth grader was rescued with his family from Congo, Africa. He has been able to connect with other children and adults.

‘They're really friendly and it's kind of like family,” said Muhammad.

It is more than a paycheck for other teenagers.

"I also learned how to speak up a little more, not be nervous and have more courage in myself," said ninth-grader Marisela Lopez.

Ballet instructor Rodolfo Mendez with Ballet East Dance is in the top ten, too. He wants to build an after-school dance program at Eastside Memorial High School just like the one he launched at Martin Middle School five years ago.

"It gives them an alternative to gang life," said Mendez. "It gives them a choice and a feeling that they belong to something."

This is his second time to apply. This year, the stakes are high.

"Our mantra, if you will, is that they're all worthy of a $100,000 grant," said Rebecca Powers, founder of Impact Austin.

Power said it will be extremely difficult for the members to narrow down the most deserving non-profits June 9. All ten finalists will give their final presentation to the membership. The women will vote and annouce the winners that night.

"That's not easy, and there will be tears," said Powers.

Even if Mendez' dance program does not make the top five, he will continue working toward his goal.

"I'll go on whether they give it to me or not," said Mendez. "My focus and my dedication is not gonna disappear."

Impact Austin started six years ago. This year’s round of grants will mark $2 million that the group has given to the non-profit community.