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Northeastern Students4Giving (NS4G) is an experiential philanthropy education program that combines rigorous academic content with real-dollar grantmaking.


About NS4G

Northeastern Students4Giving (NS4G) is an experiential philanthropy education program that combines rigorous academic content with real-dollar grantmaking to:

  • Teach students about the socioeconomic role of the nonprofit sector and philanthropy in the U.S.
  • Foster leadership, strategic-systems thinking, and innovation in the social impact arena.
  • Prepare students to think, work, and collaborate across sectors.
  • Promote a campus-wide culture of giving and civic engagement.
  • Strengthen the relationship between students and the communities in which they live.

NS4G is advised by the Director of the Social Impact Lab, Rebecca Riccio and Human Services Director Lori Gardinier, MSW, PhD. NS4G is affiliated with the Human Services Program.

Our Approach

Since 2008 students have used a consensus-based approach to manage all stages of the NS4G funding cycle from conducting needs assessments through making grant determinations. Their philanthropy is informed by coursework in human services and nonprofit management as well as many experiences working and volunteering in the nonprofit sector. Past funding priorities have included youth violence, households at risk due to financial insecurity, positive youth development, post-incarceration reintegration, community mental health, and policy and advocacy.

Grantmaking Mission

Students have adopted the following mission to guide their grantmaking:

NS4G is a philanthropy education program that enables students to make a positive and lasting impact in the communities where we live and learn through grantmaking. We make grants to community-based nonprofit organizations that address critical economic and social challenges facing the Boston neighborhoods of Mission Hill, Fenway, Roxbury, and the South End. Through our grantmaking and volunteer work, we strengthen the relationship between the Northeastern University community, our grantees, and the neighborhoods they serve.

Our Funding

Our grants are funded by the Learning by Giving Foundation and Northeastern families.

How to Apply for a Grant

Click here to apply for our 2020 NS4G Funding Priority of Overcoming Barriers to Mental Health Care Among At-Risk Adolescents and Young Adults.