Last week, the Taco Bell Foundation announced that it is awarding $15 million in grants to 452 U.S.-based nonprofits focused on the younger generations.

This year represents a $5 million increase compared to last year’s Community Grants awards; however, the goal remains to help set young people up for success. 

“We firmly believe that investing in the future success of young people is a catalyst for building stronger, more vibrant communities,” said Jennifer Bradbury, Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation, in a statement. 

The Foundation’s Community Grants program supports the work of charities championing youth in the communities where Taco Bell team members and fans live and work. 

The selected nonprofits provide direct services for youth, including academic success, mentorship, college and career exploration and readiness, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, 21st-century skills, and socio-emotional well-being.

Don Rodriguez is CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, one of the 450-plus to receive a Taco Bell Foundation Community Grant.

In a press release, he highlighted the impact the $50,000 grant will have.

“This substantial investment will allow us to provide life-changing experiences and education to hundreds of teens, giving them skills and opportunities necessary to build successful futures after high school,” Rodriguez said. 

“Together, we are creating a pathway towards a brighter tomorrow, where every young person can thrive,” he added. 

Grants awarded to nonprofits through the program are funded by customers who participate in the Taco Bell Foundation’s Round Up program by rounding up their order total to the nearest dollar, with the change going directly back toward supporting youth.

“We are honored to be part of these nonprofit organizations' journeys and are proud to see the positive impact they are making across the nation,” said Bradbury. 

A significant portion of the funding will support organizations that dedicate its support to at-risk and underrepresented youth. 

The overarching goal is to boost graduation rates, facilitate a seamless transition from high school to college and beyond, and equip young talent with the tools needed to thrive in the workplace.

In the past decade, the Taco Bell Foundation has awarded nearly $100 million in grants to nonprofits serving youth across the country.