Record-breaking $28 million in Community Grants awarded nationwide; Youth Infusion marks 3rd consecutive year as recipient
Delaware Water Gap, PA – Youth Infusion is proud to announce it has been selected for the third consecutive year as a recipient of a Community Grant from the Taco Bell Foundation receiving an incredible $55,400. This year, the Foundation awarded a record-breaking $28 million to nearly 500 nonprofit organizations nationwide, supporting programs that break down barriers to education and inspire the next generation of leaders.
The funding will support Youth Infusion’s Youth Leadership Advisory Board (YLAB) Program, which empowers high school students ages 15–18 across nine counties in Northeast Pennsylvania to lead service-learning projects, advocate for mental health, and develop critical life skills. Through mentorship, career development, financial literacy, digital literacy, civic engagement, and teen Mental Health First Aid training, YLAB equips over 300 students annually with the tools, confidence, and resources to become change-makers in their schools and communities.
“This grant directly supports our Youth Leadership Advisory Board (YLAB) Program, giving young people a platform to elevate their voices, take on leadership roles, and drive positive change,” said Elika Almeida, Co-founder and Executive Director of Youth Infusion. “We are grateful to the Taco Bell Foundation for believing in the power of youth voice and investing in their ability to lead with purpose across Northeast Pennsylvania.”
Youth Infusion was nominated for the grant by a local Taco Bell franchisee whose commitment to uplifting youth continues to expand access to education, mentorship, and career readiness programs in the region.
“We believe that empowering young people is one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in the future,” said Lisa Lane Cardin, Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation. “This record investment is a testament to the power of community-driven change and the limitless potential that exists when we remove barriers and open doors.”
The Taco Bell Foundation’s Community Grants program uplifts youth in the communities that matter most to Taco Bell – those of its fans and Team Members and supports nonprofits that think differently and take bold approaches to creating opportunities for young people.
About Youth Infusion
Youth Infusion, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to engaging young people of Northeast Pennsylvania in the process of improving communities by providing the skills, knowledge, resources, and opportunities that foster youth voice and action. Youth Infusion collaborates with schools, businesses, government agencies, and other nonprofits to ensure that youth participation and action are valued. Learn more at www.youthinfusioninc.com.
About Taco Bell Foundation
Taco Bell Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity that empowers the next generation to pursue their passions by breaking down barriers to education and providing resources to help young people chase their boldest ambitions. Since 1992, the Taco Bell Foundation has reached nearly 9 million young people across the country and has awarded more than $203 million in grants and scholarships focused on education and career readiness. For more information, visit www.tacobellfoundation.org.