Valerie Secker
Valerie Secker serves as a Senior Managing Director of Grants and Federal Affairs in the non-profit and public agencies practice. Working closely with her clients, she connects them with federal and foundation funding opportunities that match their organizational goals and mission.
Apply for the New York State Youth Safe Spaces Grant with Expert Support
The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) has announced Round 2 of the Youth Safe Spaces grant. Organizations dedicated to supporting young people ages 12–24, such as Boys and Girls Clubs, libraries, parks and recreation centers, and other community-based organizations are eligible to apply.
What Is the New York Youth Safe Spaces Grant?
New York’s Youth Safe Spaces initiative is designed to provide safe, welcoming environments where young people can build positive relationships, access community resources, and develop advocacy skills. With up to $500,000 per year (Option 1) or $250,000 per year (Option 2) available annually for five years, this grant allows organizations to create or enhance spaces that are youth-led, culturally responsive, and non-clinical.
The New York Youth Space Grant offers nonprofits a unique chance to:
Youth Safe Spaces Grant Details:
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Application Deadline: February 19, 2026
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Eligible Applicants: Not-for-profit organizations in New York State
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Funding: $250,000/year to enhance existing spaces; $500,000/year to establish new spaces
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Volume: Serve at least 250–500 unduplicated youth annually, depending on option
How We Can Help You Apply
McAllister & Quinn is a premier government relations and grant consulting firm, based in Washington, D.C., serving clients nationwide. We’ve helped our clients secure more than $17 billion in competitive grant funding and over $1 billion in congressionally directed spending. Our expert team can help you navigate the federal, state, and foundation funding landscape and strengthen your internal capacity. Let’s work together to advance your mission and create lasting impact. Contact us for a free 30-minute consultation!Examples of our Youth Service-Related Grant Wins:
$22 million to Vista Del Mar Child and Family Services of Los Angeles from the Administration for Children and Families’ Office of Refugee Resettlement Residential Services for Unaccompanied Children to provide temporary emergency shelter care and related vital services and help unite these children with their families or an appropriate sponsor quickly.
$10 million to the Family Services Agency of Santa Barbara from the Administration for Children and Families’ Healthy Marriage and Relationship Education grants to provide at-risk families with critically needed counseling and other support services to help them thrive.
$794,000 to the Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse from the California Board of State and Community Corrections to support a youth diversion project to reduce involvement in the juvenile justice system.