PASE Network News

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   

Join DCTV for a four-week, hands-on summer learning experience in filmmaking for youth ages 14-21. This free summer opportunity will take place from July 7, 2025 to July 31, 2025 on Mondays through Thursdays from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Brooklyn (87 Lafayette Street). This program is as challenging as it is fun, and participants will take their ideas on a journey from imagination to creation. Students build pitching, camera operation, interviewing, editing, and media literacy skills from pre-production to post-production. The culminating screening features documentary, narrative, animation, and experimental films. Applications are open now and are due on May 3, 2025. Visit the DCTV website to learn more and apply. 

The highly awaited song contest for middle and high-schoolers, Hip-Hop FinFe$t, is back for another season. Hosted by Pockets Change, this arts and finance program provides middle and high school students with an opportunity to build personal finance and songwriting skills through online lessons and receive feedback from judges. Judges have included hip-hop legends such as Sway Calloway, Bahamadia, and Akil the MC from Jurassic 5. Students can win cash prizes, perform, and have their voices heard about one of the most crucial topics in our lives: money. All final cuts of songs are due by April 30, 2025. Learn more on the Pockets Change website. 

Calling youth writers - come write the world with Uptown Stories this Spring. No matter which class you choose, you’ll become a better writer and communicator, and you’ll hold your head a little higher knowing you’re a published author. This Spring, Uptown Stories is bringing back beloved workshops Poetry Outside, Advanced Fiction, Choose Your Own Adventure, and Snobby Poetry, most taking place at their Washington Heights location. Workshops are Pay-What-You-Can for every family –‍ no exceptions, no proof of income needed. Register today on their website.