The James Ahern Foundation is a Northamptonshire based grant-maker that welcomes applications from young people and youth groups across the UK who wish to pursue a passion in life.

The Foundation was established in September 2014 in memory of James Ahern who died tragically in a car accident in North London a few weeks earlier, aged just 22. Whatever James did, he pursued with passion, particularly work, music, sport and travel, and the aims of the Foundation specifically reflect his passion and interests.

The Foundation is interested in hearing from individuals or youth clubs whose members may be experiencing a disadvantage through disability, social or economic background, mental health or addiction issues, or just struggling to find a way in life. What is important to the Foundation is that young people applying for a grant have a passion and can demonstrate this. Applicants will be expected to:

o Demonstrate a clear purpose or goal for the funding requested.
o Why they have a passion for that goal, and
o Where it will lead you.

All applications – which can be made by individuals or youth groups - are considered on their individual merit, regardless of your background. In the past, the Foundation has demonstrated a preference for supporting applications that address mental health and/or addiction issues.

Although its website states that the Foundation is a Charitable Trust, it isn’t listed on the Charity Commission for England and Wales (or Companies House). It has been active since 2014, however, and so is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.

Some examples of the type of project the Foundation will consider supporting are provided on its website, and include:

o Music.
o Sport.
o Travel, and
o Work.

The Foundation aims to award grants in March and August each year, but it will also consider urgent applications (applicants should make this clear when contacting the Foundation).

The application process is intended to be straightforward and consists of completing online application form (go to the button link at the bottom of the page) and having an interview with a representative of the Foundation.

Further information is available on the Foundation’s website.