A grant is empowering young people to take charge of climate action in the Yorkshire Dales. The Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust (YDMT) has received £20,000 from Beyondly’s Fund for Change to enhance its conservation work aimed at youth in the region.
Michael Devlin, the chief executive of YDMT, expressed his gratitude for the support, stating it will help more young people connect with nature, gain conservation skills, and feel motivated to impact their communities positively. Devlin sees this funding as a strong vote of confidence in the youth initiatives they offer.
The money will support YDMT’s Green Futures pathway, designed for young individuals aged 11 to 24. The program includes enriching outdoor experiences and aims to engage 250 young people from diverse backgrounds in 70 events over the next year. These events will feature nature walks, tree planting, bushcraft sessions, and habitat conservation activities.
Additionally, YDMT encourages youth leadership through monthly forums, residential programs, and an annual Youth Environment Summit. The trust continues its Rural Apprenticeship Scheme, providing 18-month placements with specialized training and support. This scheme is essential in creating job opportunities in rural areas.
Importantly, this is the second consecutive year Beyondly has funded YDMT, having previously supported community tree-growing projects. Mel Harper, head of brand and impact at Beyondly, highlighted that the youth-led approach of YDMT aligns with their mission to foster a better and more sustainable world.
A notable aspect of this partnership is the increasing focus on youth-led conservation. According to a recent survey, nearly 70% of young people today want to participate in environmental initiatives, reflecting a growing awareness and urgency surrounding climate change.
Beyondly, recognized for its commitment to social responsibility, donates five percent of their net profits to charitable projects with an environmental focus. Their total charitable fund this year reached £256,338, emphasizing their dedication to impactful initiatives.
Both YDMT and Beyondly plan to celebrate significant anniversaries—30 years for YDMT and 20 years for Beyondly—in 2026, marking their ongoing commitment to the environment and youth empowerment in the Yorkshire Dales.
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Yorkshire Dales, environmental change, Michael Devlin
