Youth Investment Fund

Creating A Global Network of Social Change Donors

The needs of young changemakers are evolving with the unprecedented challenges facing every community worldwide. For 30 years, Peace First has built responsive program models that meet young people where they are to enable access to the resources and support they need to address these challenges directly. Since 2017, Peace First has undertaken a deliberate strategy to accelerate our reach and impact across the globe. Nearly 30,000 young people from 166 countries have joined our online community. More than 12,000 projects have been launched. 1,722,947 individuals worldwide have been impacted by youth-led projects supported by Peace First. But, this is just the beginning and we know there is so much more change we can be a part of.

Through the Youth Investment Fund, Peace First redefines what it means to be a ‘donor.’ Traditionally, donors are targeted based on their wealth and access. While their money has significantly impacted youth development, it has skewed the perspective of where, how, and when organizations should give money. Fundraising is a fundamental part of social justice work and must be democratized. School teachers, taxi drivers, waiters, and everyday people who keep our world running are just as worthy of being recognized as donors to this work. Yet, they haven’t been given the same opportunity as wealthy individuals. We are changing that.

By broadening who invests in the leadership of young changemakers, we are inviting new perspectives that mirror the people we aim to impact. It strengthens our commitment to being an equitable organization and challenges people to change how they see their agency in changing the world.

Contributions to the Youth Investment Fund will directly support youth-led projects in their communities with financial support, mentorship, and technology. We aim to get 1,200 people to donate an average of $84 per month, which will sustain our operations, expand our geographic reach, and launch new programs and offerings. This fund has no end date, which allows anyone and everyone to participate in ongoing funding for youth-led social change.

Reach Out

For more information, please reach out to us directly [email protected]rst.org.