Youth programs have been at the center of giving for the Pohlad Family Foundation since its inception.

Summer Camp

The Summer Camp Scholarship Program was started in 1999 to give youth ages 8-15 a residential summer camp experience.  Most grants are made to education, human service, and other nonprofit organizations that work with economically-disadvantaged children and families, but that do not operate a summer camp program themselves.  Every year since 2004, we have helped send well over 1000 kids to camp each summer.

Summer Youth Employment

The Summer Youth Employment Program began in 2004 as way to provide high school students with work experience in the banking industry.  By 2006, internships in the newspaper and printing industries were added. And in 2009, more companies and nonprofits were recruited for the purpose of North Minneapolis youth receiving additional support to get their first job experience.  To date, more than 1000 young people have participated in the program throughout Minnesota. 

College Support

Because a college degree greatly increases a student’s opportunity for employment success, the Foundation established a college scholarship program for Twin Cities area high school graduates. More than $2 million has been provided to Minnesota high school students between 2003 and 2011.

The Horatio Alger Association, managed the program between 2003 -2010. Starting in 2011, Scholarship America is administering the program.  Scholarships are awarded on the basis of a student’s integrity, self-reliance, determination, and perseverance in overcoming adversity. Other factors taken into consideration include financial need, academic achievement, personal potential, and major life issues.