Mesa program allows young people to battle climate change 

PHOENIX — A new Mesa grant initiative will allow young adults and teens to compete for funding for projects and ideas that address climate change.The Mesa Youth Climate Action Fun program was funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies. The group awarded the city of Mesa a total of $85,000 to give to participants ages 15 to 24 for projects that will help Mesa meet its climate goals.The program encourages young people to get involved and create, implement and take part in climate solutions.“The best part of this project is that our next generation leads it,” Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman said.“It’s important for all of us to take care of our natural resources, which is key to everything we do in Mesa. We’re grateful for the support from Bloomberg Philanthropies and excited to work with the next generation of leaders to build a more sustainable future.”How can young people help Mesa with climate change?Applicants must live in and or attend school in Mesa and can apply for up to $5,000 in funding to design projects. Some of Mesa’s climate goals include heat reduction, water management, clean air and increasing shade from trees.Participants must apply by March 28 for priority review with the last deadline on May 23.Last year, Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund granted Mesa $50,000 to fund microgrants for youth-led climate projects such as tree planting and community outreach. The city hopes to play an important role in climate mitigation by being proactive and committing to its Climate Action Plan.For more information on applying for the program go to Mesa’s website.