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You are here: Home » Tip Sheet #3: Planning Your Project

Tip Sheet #3: Planning Your Project

: Tip Sheets

Youth building raised bed gardens at Beecher Middle School in Flint, MI.Community projects are an essential component of the YES Program. These tips may be useful as you plan and complete your projects.

  • Get Permissions
    Ensure that appropriate permissions are given from the proper authorities (parent, school, city, etc.) to carry out the project.
  • Make Back-Up Plans
    Things happen, so when the do be prepared. Have your participants think about an alternative project(s) in case your project plans fall through.
  • Seek Donations
    In the past, donations have been instrumental in the outcomes of community projects. Large chain stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s, as well as local merchants, have participated. When soliciting donations:

    • Find the appropriate person to speak with
    • Ask for their policies/protocols on donations
    • Create a formal solicitation letter. Include a description of YES, be specific on the project, its purpose, the cost, and what you need from them.
    • Be prepared to mention your non-profit status (tax exempt information)
    • Send a thank you letter signed by the youth
  • Remember Your Tax Exempt Information
    Have your information together before you go shopping.

Previous YES Projects

Here are some examples of projects that other implementations of YES have used successfully.

Community/School Beautification Projects

  • Planting gardens
  • Improving recreational facilities
  • Creating public art

Community Service

  • Making and donating useful things
  • Hosting community events
  • Promoting peaceful solutions

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Have you found other considerations useful when planning your YES projects? Share them below.

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Curriculum

YES Boat Mural

Everything you need to know about the YES Curriculum & how to implement it.

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Youth Led Projects

Mt. Morris Garden (8)
Projects 2012 031
Hamady#2

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Photovoice

Photovoice engages people in taking pictures of their community. It is used to identify local problems and strengths and to develop ideas for change.

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Youth Empowerment Solutions
University of Michigan
School of Public Health
1415 Washington Heights
Ann Arbor, MI 48109

ph: (734) 763-1989
email: contactYES@umich.edu
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