Teens Learn About Philanthropy And Award $45K To Local Nonprofits

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Five local nonprofit groups accepted $45,000 in grant checks Thursday night, awarded by a group of teenagers.

The teens administered the entire grant process through a division of the Philadelphia foundation known as "Youthadelphia."

The 13 Youthadelphia board members chose the winners from among 28 applicants, by reviewing proposals, making on-site visits and then arguing for their favorite.

The winning non-profits all run programs that benefit youth.

JR Masterman High School senior Maryann Cosgrove says the teen board members have a unique perspective on which programs could best impact other teens.

"What matters most, at least to me as a young person, is having a safe place to express yourself, and where they develop you as a person."

Brenda Hermandez, of Juntos, which received a $10,000 grant to help undocumented Latino youth, says it means a lot that teens chose to award their program.

"It actually makes it seems like youth has a word in this, and we can connect with each other."

And Youthadelphia board members, like Mustaffa, say they benefit, too.

"I just feel as though the more I get into this program, the more I understand my city better, and I know I can help my city better."

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