Once YPI is introduced into a school, every (Grade,Year) 9 or 10 student participates in the initiative.

After an introduction to YPI, students work together in groups and study the diverse social needs of their community. Then they select a social need that they are passionate about.

They research local, grassroots, social service organizations that aim to help members of the community faced with that specific need. One charity is selected after students analyze a number of factors, including its mission, budget, fund allocation and impact on the community.

To gain greater insight into the charity, students set up site visits and conduct interviews with charity workers and members of the community who use the services provided by the charity.

With research complete, groups put together a 10 minute presentation on their charity and how a grant would help it achieve its mission and better serve its clients.

One group from each class is chosen to conduct final presentations in front of their entire school and a judging panel, the majority of whom are fellow students.

The team with the most compelling presentation wins a ($5,000/£3,000) grant. The grant is awarded directly to the chosen charity.

Thanks to the efforts of all involved, students gain an education in philanthropy, a charity receives support and a community gains awareness of an important issue.