Richmond Bash

LEAP, a nonprofit organization based in New Haven, has received a $2 million grant from MacKenzie Scott, a well-known philanthropist. This donation will help LEAP grow its programs and continue to support the youth in New Haven.

About LEAP

Founded in 1992, LEAP stands for Leadership, Education, and Athletics in Partnership. The nonprofit’s mission is to support New Haven’s children, particularly children of color, by providing year-round programs, including:

• After-school programs
• Summer programs
• Leadership development workshops
• Physical recreational activities

These programs aim to help kids grow and succeed, both academically and personally.

MacKenzie Scott’s Grant

In a highly competitive process, LEAP was awarded a $2 million grant from MacKenzie Scott’s Yield Giving grants program. Out of more than 6,000 applicants, LEAP was one of only four nonprofits in Connecticut to receive this funding, and the only one based in New Haven.

The donation will allow LEAP to:

• Expand and improve its programs
• Strengthen its financial position
• Upgrade its infrastructure
• Create better data systems to track attendance and communicate with families and donors

LEAP’s Impact on the Community

LEAP is one of New Haven’s largest youth employers, providing jobs for over 200 young people. These youth participate in a multi-tiered mentorship program, allowing them to grow as leaders.

Programs are designed for children ages 7 to 12, and some young participants go on to become:

• Leaders in training
• Junior counselors
• Senior counselors

LEAP offers opportunities for youth at every stage of development, helping them build skills and leadership qualities.

Personal Story: China Lewis

China Lewis is a great example of LEAP’s impact. She joined LEAP as a child and is now a senior counselor while studying at Southern Connecticut State University.

China helps promote literacy among young children by reading to them, leading group readings, and teaching phonics. She also ensures the well-being of the kids she works with. “I feel like I’m making a difference,” says Lewis, who plans to continue working with LEAP after graduation.

Strengthening Partnerships

LEAP works closely with other local nonprofits, such as the Dixwell Community House, to host various programs. Through a partnership with the city of New Haven, LEAP runs all its programs at the Q House, offering them for free to the community.

Upcoming events include:

• A tutoring initiative
• A college fair for middle and high school students
• LEAP’s 30th Anniversary Annual Event in February

MacKenzie Scott’s Philanthropy

MacKenzie Scott, who was previously married to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has donated over $17 billion to nonprofits since 2020. Her grant to LEAP is part of her ongoing commitment to support organizations that make a positive impact on communities.

Conclusion
With this generous $2 million grant, LEAP can continue its important work in New Haven, supporting the youth and helping them build brighter futures.