Civic Service Fellowship program now accepting applications

Rhizome is now accepting applications for the 2025–26 Civic Service Fellowship, a year-long program that gives Southern Washington high school students the skills, mentorship, and real-world experience to make a lasting impact close to home.

The fellowship pairs leadership training with hands-on civic engagement. Fellows dedicate about three hours a week to projects such as voter-registration drives, neighborhood service events, and climate-action campaigns, building teamwork, communication, and public-speaking skills along the way. Graduates of the program are also eligible to apply for paid Organizer positions with Rhizome, providing a natural next step for those who wish to continue their leadership journey.

“Young people aren’t just the future; they’re leaders right now,” said Rhizome’s Southern Washington Regional Organizer Kate Alperin. “This fellowship amplifies their voices and helps them build the kind of world they want to live in and sustain for years to come.”

Applications are open now and can be completed in less than five minutes at werhize.org/civic-service-fellowship. Recruitment will continue until the cohort is full, so early applications are encouraged to secure a spot.

Participation is free, and no previous organizing experience is required. Students gain valuable leadership experience, earn service hours for graduation or college applications, and join a supportive network of peers and mentors dedicated to empowering young people to build a safer, happier, and healthier world.

Rhizome is a national nonprofit advancing youth civic engagement and community resilience through fellowships, service projects, and leadership development programs across the United States. Learn more at werhize.org.