How It Works
From idea to impact in 4 steps
You don't need experience, a big budget, or a perfect plan. You just need a spark — an issue that matters to you and a willingness to act. Small Hands Count provides everything else: mentorship, tools, community connections, and support to make your project succeed.
Submit Your Idea
Tell us about the challenge you want to address and your vision for solving it. No idea is too small. We'll review your submission and get back to you within 5 business days.
Get Matched
We pair you with a mentor — a college student or professional with relevant expertise — and connect you with the resources you need to plan effectively.
Build & Launch
With your mentor's guidance, finalize your plan and launch your initiative. We provide ongoing check-ins, micro-funding support, and access to our full toolkit.
Share Your Impact
Document what you achieved, reflect on your experience, and share your story on the SHC platform. Inspire the next generation of changemakers.
Ready to start?
Submit your project idea today. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and we'd love to hear from you.
Apply NowFree Resources
Your project toolkit
Everything you need to plan and run a successful initiative — free for all SHC participants.
SHC Project Starter Kit
A comprehensive bundle of planning templates designed for student changemakers.
- Project Proposal Template
- Timeline & Milestone Planner
- Budget Tracker
- Team Roles Worksheet
- Reflection Log
- Impact Report Template
Got Questions?
Frequently asked questions
Still not sure? Here are answers to questions we hear most often. You can also reach out directly.
Ask Us AnythingAny student in grades 6–12 (or equivalent) can apply. You don't need prior experience or any special skills — just a genuine desire to make a difference in your community.
No! You just need an idea. We help you develop your plan during the mentorship phase. Don't let an incomplete plan stop you from applying.
All SHC programs are completely free for students. Micro-grants are available to help cover project costs. Our mission is to remove barriers, not create them.
Most participants commit 3–5 hours per week. The time investment varies by project scope, but we work with you to set realistic expectations that fit your schedule.
Absolutely — in fact, we encourage it! Teams of 2–5 students tend to have the most success. You can also join an existing project if you prefer.
"I applied to SHC thinking I needed everything figured out. I had a rough idea for a reading program — that was it. My mentor helped me turn it into a real program that now serves 40 kids every Saturday. I never would have believed I could do something like this."
Priya S., Age 16
Founder, Westside Reads — SHC Class of 2024