Name of Foundation: Taco Bell Foundation For Teens
Location: Irvine, California
Contact info: http://www.tacobellfoundationforteens.org/ Phone: (949) 863-3915
Coverage Area: National
Subject Area: Programs that serve teens (health and wellness, education, career exploration, volunteerism/service, leadership, civic engagement)
Assets: $10 million (2012)
Last Year Total Giving:$5 million (2012)
In a nutshell:
The Taco Bell Foundation for Teens was established in 1992 (initially as the Taco Bell Foundation, Inc.). The foundation is the philanthropic arm of Taco Bell chain restaurants. Funding is raised through Taco Bell customers, franchisees, employees and vendor partners. There is a national fundraiser in the restaurants and online to benefit teens. The majority of the annual operating costs for the Taco Bell Foundation for Teens are funded by Taco Bell Corp.
The Foundation begun with a simple mission – to serve America’s teens. In 1995, the Foundation began a partnership with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America which continues today. By 2006, the Foundation had donated $15 million to BGCA. In 2014, the Foundation announced a 5 year, $30 million commitment to BGCA.
In 2011, the Taco Bell Foundation for Teens partnered with the Mark Wahlberg Foundation and together opened two Teen Studios – a national mentoring program that supports year-round film and music projects, as well as job shadowing opportunities.
The Foundation funds other community based organizations that serve teens, such as Junior Achievement and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Major Programs:
Graduate for MÁS
Camp Taco Bell Experience
How to Apply:
The Taco Bell Foundation for Teens, funds programs that focus on high school graduation and career/educational interests (college/vocational tours, job shadow experiences, mentorship programs, GED support, career exploration.)
As of 2014, the foundation will fund by invitation only.
Click here to learn more about the Foundation’s funding guidelines.