Running Start Fellowship

Acquire hands-on organizational experience in a nonprofit setting

Work alongside Running Start staff on a defined project

Practice professional and leadership skills alongside a politically inclusive cohort of young leaders

During the Running Start Fellowship, you will:

Engage with Running Start staff to understand how nonprofit programs are structured and managed.
Get hands-on practice of organizational skills through a part time, flexible internship, and build the foundation for a future career in nonprofits.
Spend 3 intensive days in Washington, DC experiencing Capitol Hill and making connections with high-level DC insiders.
Gain practical experience, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of community impact.
Receive a $1,000 stipend and all expenses paid in-person training in Washington, DC.

You’re interested in nonprofits, politics, and public service (no prior professional or political experience required).
Learning how a nonprofit organization functions sounds exciting.
You’re looking to be challenged and supported by a diverse and ideologically inclusive cohort of other women leaders.
You're between 18 - 25 years old.

1 page PDF resume
1 page writing sample that answers the question: What is an issue in your community that you would like to solve? How would you implement your solution?
- Refer to this sample document as an example and format yours as such.
Information on your interest and experience for a variety of possible internship projects.

Program Timeline:

February 15: Priority application deadline.
After February 15: Selected priority applicants will be contacted for a 20 minute interview.
Early March: Selected priority applicants will be offered acceptance to the program.
March 15: Final deadline
Late March: Depending on program needs after priority acceptances, Selected additional applicants will be contacted for a 20 minute interview and may be offered acceptance to the program.
March - November: Fellows work on a specific project with Running Start on a part-time basis.
June - November, exact dates TBD: All Fellows will participate in virtual training on a regular basis.
September, exact dates TBD: The 2026 cohort will participate in in-person training in Washington, DC.
Late November: The 2026 Fellowship program concludes.

$0 out-of-pocket
Fellows receive a $1,000 stipend and an all-expenses-paid training in Washington, DC