Call For Kindness Fellowship for Young Leaders (US)

Fellows receive 1:1 coaching and project support, virtual skill-building sessions, an in-person leadership Retreat, mentorship opportunities, and a peer community of other young change-makers. Fellows can also apply for Continuation Grants with ongoing project support and coaching.

The three pillars of the Fellowship focus on professional development, connection-making and project support:

• Professional Development: Participants gain skills to build their efficacy as leaders through workshops and professional development opportunities. Past workshops include strategic planning; budgeting and fundraising; building a strong volunteer base; diversity, equity and inclusion; and marketing and media outreach. Professional development has included participation in panels at national conferences, speaking at Riley’s Way events, designing and delivering topic-based workshops, and mentoring incoming Fellows. Fellows come together in monthly virtual networking and skill-building sessions and one in-person Leadership Retreat.
• Inclusive Community: Participants learn how to articulate their stories, strengthen their networking skills, and gain lifelong friendships. Fellows also become part of a national network of like-minded youth, adults and experts, who provide support and guidance as they move forward in their careers.
• Project Support: Riley’s Way provides winners with up to $5,000 in financial support, 1:1 project support, coaching, and problem-solving. Staff members are available for bi-weekly conversations, along with their network of issue-based experts and previous Fellows. This year, Riley’s Way will pair each project with a mentor, who is a leader in the nonprofit industry, Riley’s Way staff, board member or past Fellow.

Categories

• Awards will be given in the 2025 Special Category:
  • LGBTQIA+ Community Award
    • The LGBTQIA+ Community Award will support ten youth-led projects advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights and/or creating affirming spaces where LGBTQIA+ individuals can feel safe, valued, and empowered.
  • A Kinder World for Animals Award
    • The A Kinder World for Animals Award supports three projects that embody Riley’s Way’s values while addressing (1) the well-being of the animals that share human homes, communities and/or the planet; or (2) the role and importance that animals play in human lives and well-being. Eligible projects may focus on companion animals, domestic farm animals, captive or free-roaming wildlife, and/or support for pet owners in crisis.
  • Civil Discourse & Connection Innovation Award
    • The Civil Discourse & Connection Innovation Award will support a project dedicated to fostering constructive dialogue, mutual understanding, and respectful engagement across differing viewpoints and ideologies. This category promotes common civility, which is essential for deep conversations and meaningful connections. The projects may range from nationwide initiatives empowering youth to lead thoughtful discussions on contentious topics to local workshops that teach effective communication and conflict resolution skills within diverse communities.
  • Equity in Law Award
    • The Equity in Law Award supports two projects that address either systemic barriers, promote legal education, advocate for marginalized communities, or create resources to ensure that all individuals—regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic status, or background—can navigate and benefit from the law equitably.
  • Yuriko Kikuchi Arigato Award
    • The Yuriko Kikuchi Arigato Award (“Arigato” means “thank you” in Japanese), supports one project annually in dance and the performing arts in honor of Yuriko, the pioneering dancer, choreographer, and keeper of Martha Graham’s flame. The project must be youth-led and inspired by kindness, drive change in your community, build connections, and be centered around dance or the performing arts.

Funding Information

• All projects will be eligible for a grant of up to $5,000.
• The grant will be disbursed in two portions: half at the beginning of the Fellowship in May 2025 and the second half in December 2025, which is contingent upon the expectations outlined in the application.

Eligibility Criteria

• Riley’s Way welcomes up to two Fellows (both between the ages of 13-23) to apply per project. If selected, these individuals will participate as Fellows and project leaders throughout the year. All active group members within the age range are welcome to attend the monthly virtual sessions. Additionally, up to two other team members may be eligible to attend the Leadership Summit, based on prior participation and capacity.
• They are accepting applications from US citizens and DACA recipients between the ages of 13-23.

For more information, visit Riley’s Way Foundation.