Job Description
The Youth Organizing Fellowship is a twelve-month, full-time program hosted by the Movement Strategy Center (MSC) in collaboration with grassroots partner organizations nationwide. Launched in 2015, the fellowship empowers emerging leaders aged 18–24 to develop strategic organizing skills, deepen community partnerships, and drive social change campaigns on issues such as racial justice, climate equity, and civic engagement. Fellows receive a $30,000 stipend, professional mentorship, and a cohort-based learning experience.
Role Description:
Fellows will engage in the following activities:
- Field Placements: Serve on-site with a local organizing partner—such as community coalitions, advocacy groups, or civic engagement initiatives—to plan and execute campaigns targeting policy change, voter engagement, or public awareness.
- Skill-Building Labs: Participate in monthly intensive workshops on grassroots strategy, base-building, narrative development, digital mobilization, and campaign evaluation.
- Leadership Coaching: Receive individualized coaching from experienced organizers and movement practitioners, with quarterly one-on-one sessions to set goals and reflect on practice.
- Peer Collaboration: Join a national cohort of 15–20 fellows in quarterly convenings—virtually and in-person—to share successes, troubleshoot challenges, and build cross-regional alliances.
Location:
Placements in partner organizations across U.S. regions (Northeast, South, Midwest, West, Pacific Islands). Fellows live locally to their placement site and travel quarterly to MSC regional hubs for convenings.
Application Cycle:
Annually. .
What You’ll Need:
- Age 18–24 at fellowship start.
- Demonstrated commitment to community or campus organizing through volunteer work, prior internships, or campaign involvement.
- Strong communication, facilitation, and cross-cultural collaboration skills.
- Capacity to commit full-time for twelve months and to travel for convenings.
Benefits and Perks:
- Stipend & Support: $30,000 annual fellowship stipend; basic health insurance stipend; professional development fund.
- Coaching & Network: Access to MSC’s mentorship network, resources library, and post-fellowship placement support.
- Training Resources: Subscription to organizing toolkits, data platforms, and learning modules.
- Career Pathways: Priority consideration for MSC staff roles and partner organization positions upon completion.
Where and How You Can Apply:
Submit your application via the Movement Strategy Center website during the open cycle. Required materials include:
- Résumé or CV.
- Personal statement (500 words) describing your organizing experience and goals.
- Two letters of recommendation from mentors or supervisors familiar with your leadership.
- Video introduction (2 minutes) sharing your vision for community change.
