Civic Leaders of Tomorrow Public Policy Fellowship
Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer’s Civic Leaders of Tomorrow Public Policy Fellowship promotes future leaders in public policy and advocacy through fellowship placements at not-for-profit and community-based organizations in New York City. Fellows are placed at organizations advocating for underserved communities in a variety of issue areas.
In recognition of rapidly evolving demographics and the increasing challenges of sustaining equal access and affordability in New York City and broader society, the Manhattan Borough President’s Office (MBPO) seeks to increase opportunities for the development of future leadership in public policy and advocacy in areas of underserved need. Civic Leaders of Tomorrow has these purposes:
Promote leadership and advocacy opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students; Enhance the capacity of not-for-profit organizations to advocate for underserved communities; Strengthen relationships between not-for-profit organizations and local government and provide fellows with an appreciation of local government
Each fellow works with a not-for-profit organization for a minimum of eight hours per week for a full semester. Fellows will engage in work involving policy advocacy and interaction with government entities and communities served by the organization. Fellows will also organize one meeting between the leadership of the organization and appropriate community board(s) todevelop mechanisms of communication and collaboration.
Fellows will convene four times during the semester at the Manhattan Borough President’s Office in seminar and workshop settings to synthesize their work experiences. Fellows will meet twice to present on their work, discuss approaches and experiences and strategize on potential collaborations. Fellows will be encouraged to conduct dialogue with one another during the program.
To apply, students must submit a (1) cover letter expressing nature of interest in the fellowship, (2) resume, (3) two page writing sample, (4) a copy of the most recent undergraduate and/or graduate transcript and (5) two references by January 21, 2009. Students of any major andbackground may apply. Applicants may indicate in their cover letter particular policy or advocacy issues in which they are interested. While best efforts will be made to match placements with Fellows’ interests, final placements will be contingent on available host organizations.
Five fellowships will be awarded to undergraduate students of any discipline. Students of color, female students and students from low-income and economically disadvantaged backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Interviews will be required for selected applicants prior to final selection.
Placements are projected to begin no later than February 16, 2009. Please send applications to Civic Leaders of Tomorrow, Manhattan Borough President’s Office, 1 Centre St., 19th Fl., New York, NY 10007 or via email to civicleaders@manhattanbp.org. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to serve, as well as a familiarity with, emerging and underserved communities in Manhattan and New York City.
Fellows will receive a $1,000 stipend for the duration of the Fellowship which is one semester. Fellows may also seek arrangements with their university to receive academic credit. Organizations and fellows will be required to document assignments and work performed at the midpoint and conclusion of the placement prior to receiving the stipend.
