The Pride in the Tribe: Leadership & Advocacy Fellowship is a 10-month leadership program for high school teens who want to grow as advocates, build confidence, and make a real difference in their communities. Designed for youth ready to champion LGBTQ+ equality, this fellowship brings together a supportive cohort to explore civic engagement through the lens of identity, belonging, action, and Jewish values.

This is a place to:

• Find your voice: Learn how to speak up for what matters to you, meet with elected leaders, and understand how change really happens.

• Travel with purpose: Take part in an unforgettable trip to Sacramento and experience government, advocacy, and community-building in action.

• Build real-life skills: Grow in public speaking, media literacy, leadership, and teamwork. These are skills you can carry into school, college, and life.

• Give back: Earn community service hours through hands-on projects with local organizations and causes that matter.

• Belong: Make lasting friendships in a space that is safe, welcoming, and full of heart. Community happens here.

As the year goes on, fellows will have chances to put their learning into practice. That may mean helping plan a local event, joining a service project, or stepping into a leadership role that feels right for them. There is room to stretch, learn, and grow at your own pace.

No prior leadership, political, or advocacy experience is needed. Just curiosity, an open mind, and a willingness to show up. This fellowship is a launchpad for teens who want to connect their values to meaningful action and discover what kind of leader they can become.

You do not need to be Jewish to participate. While the fellowship is grounded in Jewish values like tzedek (justice) and tikkun olam (repairing the world), it is proudly open to any LGBTQ+ teen or ally who wants to learn, lead, and build a more caring future.

• Fellowship program: Free (there is no cost to participate in the monthly meetings or local projects).

• Sacramento Trip: There will be a separate fee of $700 for the optional-trip.

• Note: To be eligible for the Sacramento trip, fellows must attend at least 7 out of the 10 fellowship meetings. Financial assistance/scholarships for the trip fee may be available.

Unless noted, Sunday meetings will be from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM at the Lawrence Family JCC (LFJCC).