The Youth Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) is the vision of Lynn Schusterman to begin preparing the next generation of philanthropists. YPI is a 3-year program for Tulsa-area high school students that teaches them what it means to be a philanthropist and change agent.

Each group of 25 students (called cohorts) is provided with $65,000 to use toward an issue facing teens that they feel is under-addressed.

In order to be a member of YPI, students must submit an application that asks them to describe why they believe philanthropy is important. The top 50 applicants are invited to interview and then final selections are made.

The program begins with a week-end retreat where the students get to know each other. YPI strives to create a diverse group with students from a wide range of high schools (public, private, home school, etc), communities (Tulsa, Jenks, Broken Arrow, Owasso, Sand Springs, Bixby, Sapulpa, etc.) and ethnic/religious backgrounds.

YPI requires a strong commitment from participants because the monthly meetings occur on a school day. During the busy meeting days students work on their philanthropy project, meet community leaders and work though team-building activities. Everything the students experience is meant to further their knowledge and experience in four main areas: Philanthropy, Leadership, Self Awareness and Community-Building.

Each cohort is supported by 2 adult advisors, but YPI is truly a student-led program. Students choose their focus issue on their own, decide how to use their funds to the greatest effect, schedule guest speakers and even arrange for meals during meeting days.

YPI meetings are held at the University of Oklahoma-Tulsa where they enjoy strong support from the university community.

Philanthropy: What does it mean to give? How does giving make a difference?

Leadership: What does it mean to lead? How do you influence people in power to address real issues?

Self Awareness: What are your unique talents that make you stand out? How can you take those talents to the next level?

Community Building: What happens when some parts of the community are in trouble? What can be done to make the community stronger so everyone benefits?