Youth task force members making hard choices about making an impact

Lighting the Spark: Kirkland Youth Lead the Way

On November 5, ten local teens—each with a heart for service—came together to form the Ignite 2025 Youth Task Force, launching the Kirkland Community Foundation’s annual giving campaign with purpose and passion. Representing Kirkland Middle School, Lake Washington High, Juanita, SAAS, EPS, and Tesla STEM, these young neighbors brought their voices, values, and vision to the table. They didn’t just show up—they leaned in.

Six Kirkland Schools Represented

They came from different schools and backgrounds, but shared one mission: to support the nonprofits that make our community stronger. The call for service went out through schools, social media, and trusted local partners—and the response was inspiring. These students showed up ready to listen, learn, and lead.

Throughout the afternoon, they dug into grant requests from 37 local nonprofits. They asked thoughtful questions, shared personal insights, and considered what would make the biggest difference for youth and families in Kirkland. Their conversations were lively, respectful, and full of heart.

Making Meaningful Grants

Together, they decided that every grant they would direct should be meaningful, which meant at least $300 minimum needed to be allocated to help a nonprofit move the needle. They weighed how many people each project might reach, how long the impact would last, and whether other funding might be available. And they didn’t shy away from tough choices. They advocated for the causes they believed in, listened to each other, and found common ground.

It was eye-opening to hear diverse perspectives from peers across different schools and backgrounds,” said student leader Michael Aronchick. “Together we had thoughtful, lively discussions and agreed that projects serving youth and smaller nonprofits could really benefit from our grant funding.”

By the end of the day, they selected a slate of nine nonprofits to receive grants totaling $4,500 in Youth Choice Ignite awards. These organizations reflect the heart of Kirkland and the hopes of its next generation.

Youth voice & choice are paramount in our program; it is inspiring to see young people in our community championing this work alongside us”.Rachel Bergman Director of Government & Community Grants -Friends of Youth

Kirkland Community Foundation Youth Choice Awards

First Place: Friends of Youth – Food Supports for Willows Youth Services Center

Second Place (3 way tie):

Eat Happy Now – Rescue Surplus Food
Sophia’s Way – Warm Beverages
New Bethlehem – Essential Needs for Homeless Families

Third Place: Assistance League of the Eastside – Community Outreach & Volunteer Engagement.

Runners up: MEOW Cat Rescue, Kindering, Connective Strength & Washington Autism Alliance

Founded in 2014, the Kirkland Community Foundation is a local community foundation supporting nonprofits across Kirkland and the Eastside. We connect donors, nonprofits, and community priorities through grants, partnerships, and local giving that strengthen our parks, people, and shared future. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 46‑4931717), we invest in thriving nonprofits, visible community impact, and trusted local leadership.

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Spark Something Good - with the Kirkland Community Foundation

At the Kirkland Community Foundation, we serve as conveners, catalysts, and collaborators - and we know that new ideas need fuel to catch spark. That’s why we’ve created this space to hear from you.

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Lighting the Spark: Kirkland Youth Lead the Way

Six Kirkland Schools Represented

Making Meaningful Grants

Kirkland Community Foundation Youth Choice Awards

Learn and stay connected to the Kirkland nonprofit community

Thanks for your interest in joining the Kirkland Charitable Collective! Submit your info and we'll get back to you with details soon.

Spark Something Good - with the Kirkland Community Foundation

Community Project Letter of Interest

The story behind your idea —

Inquire about opening a donor-advised fund

Thank you for your interest in serving on our board of directors.

Please reach out to us with any inquiries or comments. We'd love to hear from you.