ChallengeUS is proud to announce that The Institute for Citizens and Scholars has selected ChallengeUS for the inaugural Carnegie Young Leaders for Civic Preparedness fellowship, joining 500 promising young changemakers from 27 states who are committed to strengthening their communities and democracy.

Funded by a $2,000,000+ grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York, the program provides young leaders, ages 14–24, with up to $7,500 per team in project funding, stipends, mentorship, and access to a national network of peers and civic leaders to bring these programs to life. 

As Carnegie Young Leaders, our team will participate in a year-long series of virtual and in-person activities, including leadership workshops, networking opportunities, and a capstone project. This program is designed to equip young leaders with the skills, mentorship, and resources needed to bridge divides and solve pressing community challenges.

The experience aims to empower the next generation of civic leaders. Unlike programs that simply provide funding, the Carnegie Young Leaders for Civic Preparedness puts real decisions and real responsibility in the hands of its fellows, trusting them to zero-in on what truly matters in their communities and make it happen.

ChallengeUS and Carnegie Young Leaders share a common vision to activate and elevate youth voices to drive civic progress. Since its inception, ChallengeUS has championed student-led innovation through competitive platforms that spotlight fresh ideas on issues like economic inequality, corruption, and climate change. Now, through the Carnegie program, we will further develop our experience in civic engagement, community organizing, and collaborative problem-solving.

As part of the Citizens and Scholars Network, we are humbled to join a cohort of bold, youth-led teams who have demonstrated outstanding vision, collaboration, and a deep commitment to driving positive change in their communities. For ChallengeUS, this milestone marks a significant step in our mission to build a global network of student leaders and expand civic spaces for all ages. 

For more information on the Institute for Citizens and Scholars and the Carnegie Young Leaders program, click here.