YouthBridge Heritage Grant Propels College Bound Forward
Powered by Fundholders. Driven by Impact.
The Heritage Grant at YouthBridge Community Foundation of St. Louis is a catalyst for transformation, funded through YouthBridge fundholder fees. This invitation-only grant provides up to $30,000 annually over three years to child or youth serving organizations that are regularly supported by our fundholders. More than financial support, the Heritage Grant is designed to fuel organizations that are ready to grow, strengthen their impact, and lead lasting change in our community.
College Bound is a recipient of the YouthBridge Heritage Grant—an unrestricted investment rooted in trust and shared purpose. This flexible support empowers the organization to lead boldly, expand its reach, and amplify its impact, creating new pathways to college and opportunity for even more students.
College Bound St. Louis: A Story of Inspired Action
College Bound’s mission pulses with determination: they invest in students for the long haul, empowering those who face systemic obstacles to education. Through three dynamic programs, they champion youth from low-income backgrounds on the journey to becoming first-generation college graduates. The “To and Through” initiative delivers personalized, year-round support beginning in sophomore year of high school and continuing through college graduation, complemented by programs at St. Louis Community College–Forest Park and Ranken Technical College.
But College Bound does not stop at academics—they build real-world skills, foster enrichment, nurture mental wellness, and open doors to career opportunities. CEO Milton Mitchell brings the mission to life with a powerful story: when a student struggled to attend classes and sessions, College Bound sprang into action. It organized safe, consistent transportation and synced therapy appointments with her class schedule. As a result, her engagement soared, and now she is conquering her first semester at Washington University in St. Louis with a full scholarship!
Fueling Lasting Regional Impact
College Bound’s influence lasts beyond graduation. A recent survey of alumni shows that 80% are satisfied with their chosen careers. In addition, about 75% remain in Missouri and volunteer, advocate, or participate in civic life, and nearly 75% are saving for retirement!
Perfect Timing for Expanded Growth
Milton Mitchell can feel the energy. As College Bound gears up for its twentieth anniversary, the Board of Directors and staff work to craft a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan. The Heritage Grant arrives just in time, accompanied by the Core Capacity Assessment Tool (CCAT), to point the way forward. Milton looks forward to the CCAT results, ready to ensure College Bound’s planning is precise and well-aligned. Funds may support staff development—an investment in people who strengthen both the organization and the broader community. Over the next three years, College Bound will measure the impact of this investment.
YouthBridge Partnership: More Than Money
Milton knows the value of YouthBridge is not just in dollars; it is also found in ongoing collaboration. “The long-standing legacy of YouthBridge’s trustworthiness along with their expertise in matching donors with mission-aligned organizations is unparalleled. The passionate and helpful staff are phenomenal advocates and the ability they bring to connect us with peers is an incredible value-added bonus.”
Your Chance to Be the Difference
Ready to join the energy? You can fuel College Bound directly at collegeboundstl.org or reach out to Allison McDonald, YouthBridge Grants Manager. Want to amplify your philanthropy with YouthBridge? Connect with Andranique Joe, Director of Philanthropy. Your involvement sparks change.