[Polk County, FL], (September 16, 2026) – Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County is proud to announce it has been selected as a recipient of a 2026 Community Grant from the Taco Bell Foundation. The funding will support the Workforce Readiness Program, helping youth in Polk County access essential resources to achieve their goals.
2026 is Taco Bell Foundation’s biggest Community Grants year yet: a record $32 million supporting 700 nonprofits nationwide, representing a 40% increase in nonprofit partners from last year. Fueled by fans who Round Up their Taco Bell order totals, the investment is creating more opportunities for young people through education, career readiness, mentorship and youth empowerment.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County was nominated for the grant by local Taco Bell franchisee LVE, whose continued commitment to uplifting youth has helped expand access to education, mentorship, and career readiness programs across the community.
“When you think about how this started, with fans giving a little extra at checkout, it’s incredible to see that generosity grow into $32 million for organizations serving young people across the country,” said Morgan Tabor, Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation. “What I love most about Community Grants is how local they are. Taco Bell franchisees know these organizations, they believe in their work, and together we’re helping more young people see just how much is possible for their futures.”
Through this grant, Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County will expand its Workforce Readiness Program, providing more teens with hands-on career exploration, mentorship, financial literacy education, and opportunities to develop the practical and professional skills needed to succeed in school, the workplace, and beyond.
To learn more about the Taco Bell Foundation and the Community Grants program, please visit https://www.tacobellfoundation.org/who-we-support/.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County
Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County serve thousands of children and teens each year through afterschool and summer programs focused on academic success, healthy lifestyles, workforce readiness, and character development. With 10 Club sites across the county, the organization is committed to ensuring every young person, especially those who need us most, has a safe, supportive place to learn, grow, and thrive.
For more information on how to get involved, visit bgcpolk.org/ways-to-give/.
About Taco Bell Foundation
Taco Bell Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity that empowers the next generation to pursue their passions by breaking down barriers to education and providing resources to help young people chase their boldest ambitions. Since 1992, the Taco Bell Foundation has reached more than 13 million young people across the country and has awarded more than $278 million in grants and scholarships, focused on education and career readiness. For more information about the Taco Bell Foundation, visit www.tacobellfoundation.org.