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Do science to learn science.
We are a grant-making non-profit that seeks to develop citizens with scientific habits of mind, utilizing the environment as a learning laboratory where students conduct inquiry-based research and contribute to a better collective understanding of our changing world.
“We often teach about the scientific method in theory. Here, we lived it — from hypothesis in the classroom to data collection in the field, and finally, to presenting solutions to our community. It was authentic learning in its purest form.”
- Biology teacher awarded a 2024 YLACES Grant
“Before, a puddle was just a puddle. Now, we see it as a potential breeding site. This project didn't just teach us about mosquitoes; it changed how we see our entire environment.”
- 11th Grade student engaged in a project funded by YLACES
YLACES in 2025
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49 projects funded.
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$100,000+ awarded.
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8 Student Research Symposium grants awarded, supporting 961 students and 197 educators from 60 schools.
(With 74% of projects reporting in)
YLACES in 2024
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12,492 students engaged in environmental research.
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19,291 community members impacted.
YLACES grants support pervasive inclusion of student research projects in science teaching.
Students presenting their research at an SRS are treated as scientists and therefore see themselves as scientists.
Our awardees are working with youth to do environmental citizen science research all over the world.