PASE Network News

The Opportunity Youth Congressional Liaison Program (OYCL) is a virtual, part-time, three-month paid fellowship for youth ages 16 to 26 to equip them with the skills and tools they need to directly advocate to lawmakers. Congressional Liaisons will join online trainings twice a month, participate in short assignments and check-ins, and share their experiences with each other as they learn to be advocates for themselves and their communities, speaking up on behalf of Opportunity Youth to hold politicians accountable to the communities they serve. This program, which offers $2500 in compensation, was designed with and for Opportunity Youth (young people who have been disconnected from both school and work) to level up their advocacy skills and connect to others working for more equitable access to opportunity. Learn more about the program and past cohorts on the Forum for Youth Investment website and apply by April 14, 2025. 

Kaplan Educational Foundation (KEF) is recruiting students for the Kaplan Leadership Scholars Program. This program is designed for community college students ready to overcome obstacles and take their education and career to the next level. Participants gain access to personalized academic advising, financial support, leadership development, and upward college transfer assistance. Learn more about the program on the KEF website or in weekly application office hours via Zoom on Wednesdays from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM (link on application page). Check out their website for more details on how to apply, including eligibility criteria and on-campus champions who can support you through the process.  

StART Dreaming is a free, year-long, audition-based college prep program for rising NYC high school seniors, offered by the nonprofit Statement Arts. It begins with a four-week Summer Arts Intensive (July 7, 2025 – August 1, 2025) at the Triad Theater on the Upper West Side, where students train in acting, singing, dance, and creative writing while receiving private voice lessons, acting masterclasses, professional headshots, and college essay coaching—all leading up to two final public performances. Beyond the summer, each student is paired with a trained mentor who provides college application support, FAFSA guidance, and financial aid assistance throughout their senior year. StART Dreaming has a 100% college acceptance rate, with most participants receiving substantial scholarships. Learn more and apply by Friday, May 9, 2025 on the Statement Arts website. 

Institute for Citizens & Scholars’ Carnegie Young Leaders for Civic Preparedness program is looking for young people between the ages of 14 and 24 who are ready to step up, bridge divides, and tackle pressing issues in their communities. In 2025, 500 young civic changemakers from across the country will form 100 teams to lead community projects. Together, participants will build the skills to have difficult conversations, strive to understand others, and collaborate productively to make a lasting impact. Participants will receive regular coaching and mentorship, join an ongoing virtual peer community of practice, and become part of the prestigious Citizens & Scholars network. Participants will also receive stipends ranging from $1000-2500, depending on their role, and can also be reimbursed for project costs. Learn more and submit a project proposal by May 28, 2025 at 9:00 AM EST on their website. 

City Lore's Urban Explorers Program offers media fellowships for high school students who have a professional interest in film, writing, and performance (no prior experience necessary) and an interest in art for community building and advocacy. Urban Explorers is now recruiting students for their August 2025 summer program, with sessions occurring on Tuesdays through Fridays over three weeks at their Brooklyn location (56 East 1st Street). The program will culminate in a works-in-progress presentation, including screenings and live presentations. Explorers will each receive a stipend of $500 for their participation. Learn more and apply on the application form by April 4, 2025. For questions or for more information, please contact Urban Explorers Program Director Raquel Almazan at raquel@citylore.org