SELF DETERMINATION FUND

HYPE's Self-Determination Fund is a resource for HYPE Members who are empowering themselves to achieve success, or are taking steps to gain control of their own life.
Please read the FAQ below before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply?

• HYPE Members with a profile and consent on file
  (Note: our new membership system launched in 2023, you may need to update your details)
• Have visited HYPE 2+ times in the past month to access services and resources
  
• We will prioritize applications from youth who have systems involvement (including foster care and juvenile justice), are unstably housed or homeless, or are in the life and/or are healing from exploitation.

How much funding can I apply for and how often?

Members can apply for up to $400.00, and can be awarded twice in 2023.
Because SDF was on pause for a while, we will accept applications to REIMBURSE a previous purchase from 2023.

How can I use these funds?

SDF must be used towards a specific item, goal, or activity. Examples include:

• Education expenses: enrollment, tutoring, school applications or costs for materials
  
• School event: prom tickets, attire, graduation events, senior photos, field trip fees
• Extracurricular activities: sports, expressive arts, etc.
• Job costs: uniforms, training, certification fees
• Entrepreneurship: launch a business or a side hustle
• Personal healing: therapeutic or wellness activities, holistic retreat
• Travel to reconnect with someone important to you
• Government fees: DL/ID, work permit or VISA, citizenship or residency fees
• Pay a specific debt that's preventing you from achieving your goals

As a part of your application, we want to know how you’re going to use the funds and how it will contribute to you achieving success in your life! This includes describing why this is important to you and what barriers are currently in your way.
We also need documentation of the item being purchased/reimbursed. (This could be a link, bill or receipt.)

When are applications accepted?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, which means you can submit your application anytime.

All applications can be submitted online using the form below.
If you need assistance with your application, please email hypecenter@freedom-forward.org

HYPE Center reviews applications on a weekly basis and will let you know your application status via email.
If approved, HYPE staff with work with you to provide the appropriate documentation.  This might include gathering bills or receipts, or HYPE staff making the purchase on your behalf.
The whole process can take up to 30 days. Make sure you check and respond to emails to ensure no extra delays.
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