FY2026

Grants from the Next Generation Fund support local and statewide positive youth development initiatives

Explora

Explora’s "Excellence in Cradle through Career STEAM Learning" initiative expands accessible science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) education for underserved urban, rural, and Tribal communities across New Mexico. The six-month project includes expanding the Brillante Early Learning Center for childcare and educator training, providing teen workforce training and internships through X Studio, conducting statewide K-5 outreach trips, developing new exhibitions, and partnering with community organizations to offer multigenerational learning and career pathways for ages two to nineteen. Grant award $60,000.00. www.explora.us

Families & Youth Innovations Plus (FYI+)

The Youth Community Impact Leadership Initiative empowers six to eight young people from Doña Ana County, specifically those with lived experience in child welfare, juvenile justice, or housing instability to become authentic partners in community change. Through a six-month program, participants earn $25.00 per hour while engaging in intensive leadership training, serving as paid consultants in at least 30 civic and policy meetings, and designing three to five original community improvement projects. By combining skill development in policy advocacy and trauma-informed approaches with direct systemic engagement, the initiative aims to foster long-term civic leadership and measurable community impact across urban, rural, and tribal areas of Southern New Mexico. Grant award $60,000.00. https://fyiplusnm.org/

Youth Shelters & Family Services (YSFS)

Youth Shelters and Family Services (YSFS) is launching a behavioral health and psychosocial initiative in Santa Fe to support youth from birth to age 24 across its outreach, shelter, and housing programs. The initiative employs a three-pronged strategy involving the recruitment of a full-time licensed professional counselor, the establishment of an art therapy internship pipeline with Southwestern College, and the operation of a trauma-informed on-site ceramics studio. These activities aim to ensure that 80% of participants receive clinical assessments within one week of enrollment and achieve measurable improvements in self-esteem, problem-solving, and housing stability. By integrating specialized mental health services with creative skill-building, YSFS seeks to enhance self-regulation and life skills for high-needs clients. Grant award $60,000.00. youthshelters.org