UWSN is accepting applications for our Democracy Fellowship’s Second Cohort!
APPLY HERE
DEADLINE: August 17th at 5PM
For over 65 years, United Way of Southern Nevada has believed that everyone, no matter their background, can make a difference by giving, advocating, and volunteering. The Democracy Fellowship is an opportunity for high school students of all lived experiences, whether new to civic engagement or already involved, to build the skills, network, and confidence to lead change in their communities.
Through hands-on experiences, this fellowship equips students with the tools to understand, navigate, and influence the democratic process. Fellows will engage directly with decision-makers, organize events, and develop policy solutions that address real issues. This year, fellows will even have the opportunity to draft and propose legislation to be introduced in the next Nevada session. Only 10 fellows will be selected to ensure a personalized, high-impact experience.
- Understand our state’s policy-making process, from the state to local levels, and attend public hearings on issues they care about.
- Connect and volunteer with nonprofit and community leaders to learn best advocacy practices.
- Lead policy and advocacy projects to make a difference in our state!
- Receive mentorship from Democracy Fellowship alumni, United Way staff, and community leaders!
Requirements
Selected fellows will be required to:
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Attend monthly civic engagement Action Labs (Tentative dates: September 9th, September 25, October 22, November 18, January 21, February 25, March 24, June 2). These sessions are hands-on and collaborative. Fellows will work in groups to plan events, build coalitions, ddevelop policy proposals. Each lab focuses on applying skills in leadership, organizing, and real-world policymaking.
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Participate in at least three (3) community outreach or enrichment activities
Fellows will join outreach and volunteering events planned in partnership with United Way of Southern Nevada. These include opportunities like tabling at resource fairs, presenting civic education sessions at libraries or schools, or volunteering with local nonprofits. These activities allow fellows to build bonds with one another, serve their communities, and engage with real civic issues. Most events will take place on weekends and be coordinated in advance. -
Attend enrichment opportunities led by guest speakers
Fellows will also take part in interactive enrichment opportunities where guest speakers such as lobbyists, state senators, assemblymembers, and policy professionals share their experiences and insights. These sessions help fellows better understand how government works, what advocacy looks like in practice, and how to lead effectively. What they learn here prepares them to succeed in the hands-on Action Lab meetings. -
Organize and lead one (1) civic engagement event
Fellows will plan and host their own event to practice coalition-building, outreach, and logistics. Past examples include student-led panels with elected officials, voter registration drives, and youth-led town halls. Fellows will receive support and guidance from program staff as they bring their vision to life. -
Join one-on-one check-ins with staff
Bimonthly, fellows will meet briefly with program staff to reflect on their progress, ask questions, and get personalized guidance -
Participate in alumni mentorship hours
Fellows will be matched with past Democracy Fellows—college students and upperclassmen—who will offer fellowship, career, college, and life advice. These mentorship hours help fellows build long-term relationships and receive near-peer guidance on navigating civic life.
Ready to get involved? Click the link above to submit an application. If you have any questions or encounter any issues submitting an application, please contact Henry Rosas, External Affairs Manager, at henryr@uwsn.org. Selected fellows will receive an invitation for a 15-minute phone screening shortly after.
Action Lab Dates
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Thank you to our sponsor, All Voting Is Local, for making this program possible!
