Celebrating Youth Engagement Across Texas: Highlights from Spark Grant Projects
This year, Spark Grants fueled creativity and collaboration across Texas. Here are a few highlights that showcase what happens when adults and youth work together toward change.
As 2025 draws to a close, we pause to reflect on the progress and partnerships that have shaped this year. Texas Youth Action Network (TYAN) proudly welcomed its 100th Community Partner; a milestone that underscores our shared commitment to creating spaces where young voices matter.
TYAN’s mission is simple yet powerful: to strengthen organizations implementing Positive Youth Development (PYD) and Youth-Adult Partnership (YAP) strategies through capacity-building and funding. We empower organizations that work with youth; helping them amplify youth perspectives and leadership.
One way we achieve this is through our Spark Grant program, which supports experienced partners in implementing innovative projects designed to deepen youth engagement. This year, Spark Grants fueled creativity and collaboration across Texas. Here are a few highlights that showcase what happens when adults and youth work together toward change.
Youth Engagement in Action: Spark Grant Highlights
Middle school students in Bryan ISD are leading the charge against vaping and drug use. Through VKOT’s initiative, youth are trained to create prevention groups within their schools, equipping peers with knowledge to make informed choices. By starting early, this project builds a ripple effect empowering students to advocate for healthy lifestyles as they progress through school.
The Generational Empowerment Project takes a holistic approach to youth development, blending leadership training with exposure to STEAM careers, financial literacy, and mental health awareness. Youth participants leave with tools to protect themselves, foster healthy relationships, and embrace their role as community changemakers. 
Check out their recently published resource titled, “New Beginnings: A Practical Guide to Program Creation” found within our online resource database.
Through a youth-led podcast, teens ages 14–18 are sharing authentic stories and tackling issues like mental health, identity, and peer pressure. From planning to production, youth drive every aspect of the project, gaining skills in communication, media, and teamwork while creating a platform that resonates with peers and adults alike. 
Follow Teen Life Soundtrack Podcast on Instagram @tlspodcast_ and link to listen here.
Next generation leaders are redefining nonprofit innovation. Youth ages 18–24 are redesigning internal systems, digital tools, and outreach strategies to modernize service delivery. By serving as real-time consultants, participants gain leadership experience while ensuring the organization evolves in ways that are relevant and community driven.
Nourish Your Creativity addresses food insecurity and mental health through culinary arts and mindfulness. Youth ages 10–17 transform ingredients from local food banks into nutritious meals while exploring the link between nutrition and emotional wellness. With TikTok and YouTube storytelling, participants inspire peers and promote food justice awareness.
Looking Ahead to 2026
These projects remind us that youth engagement isn’t just a program; it’s a partnership. TYAN’s role is to create environments where those contributions are encouraged and respected, and our Spark Grants prove what’s possible when organizations invest in youth leadership by allowing youth to plan, create, and execute innovative projects within their communities.
Looking ahead, we invite organizations to explore joining TYAN membership and funding opportunities that support innovative ideas that bring fresh energy to Positive Youth Development. Learn more about how you can get involved by visiting TYAN’s website.
Eligibility for Spark Grants includes graduates of our learning collaborative, former partners, and organizations within a Pod. Applications open in Spring, and announcement of recipients occurs in the Summer. Please contact TYAN’s Project Manager, Maddison Holder at holder14@exchange.tamu.edu for more information.
“This year has shown us the power of collaboration. When we invest in youth voices, we invest in stronger communities. Thank you to every organization that made 2025 a year of growth and innovation. Here’s to continuing that momentum in the year ahead.” – Dr. Emily Naiser, TYAN Program Director
Together, let’s keep building strong youth-adult partnerships in 2026.