Youth throughout the countries where EF works face substantial educational, social and employment hurdles. Young people – particularly in rural areas – have very few opportunities to secure jobs and participate in local civic spheres where they can develop the skills needed to create the next generation of leaders.

From providing employment opportunities for orphans in Ukraine, to enhancing the education of young girls in Kazakhstan, and to providing volunteering opportunities for college students in China, EF’s youth initiatives help empower and engage young people to contribute to the well being of their community. The projects provide them with creative outlets to apply their energy and ingenuity to bring about positive change in their communities.

Youth Bank is an innovative grant making initiative run by young people for young people. It is the most successful youth program model used by EF. Local Youth Banks provide small grants to fund young people’s good ideas to benefit their own communities.

Today, the Eurasia Foundation Network supports 79 Youth Banks in seven countries - engaging over 3,500 youths through more than 460 projects.

To learn more about our Youth Engagement programs, click here.