GWEC - Civic Scholars & Career Innovators: Youth Internship and Leadership Program

The Civic Scholars Career and Innovators Program is a paid internship and mentorship initiative for high school youth ages 14–21 that integrates civic engagement education with real-world career exploration and hands-on work experience. Through weekly seminars on how NYC government works, community boards, participatory budgeting, advocacy, environmental justice, and media literacy, students build a strong foundation in civic leadership while completing mini-projects such as policy briefs, surveys, campaigns, and awareness materials. Youth then participate in 80–120 hours of paid internships with community-based organizations, civic offices, media programs, environmental and permaculture groups, tech and data initiatives, cultural institutions, and wellness providers. Career Exploration Labs connect civic learning to high-opportunity fields—including government, public service, technology for social impact, public health, sustainability, media, and entrepreneurship—showing students how careers can generate both community impact and economic mobility. Each cohort completes a "Youth Civic Action Project", developing solutions to issues like mental health, transportation, housing, or environmental wellness through campaigns, presentations, documentaries, or proposals to local officials. Supported by field trips, digital storytelling workshops, workforce training, guest speakers, and a community showcase, students graduate with strengthened advocacy skills, job readiness, leadership, teamwork, cultural pride, and a deeper sense of identity as future civic and career leaders.

Young people are the future decision-makers of New York City, yet many lack exposure to how government works, how policies are shaped, and how civic leadership connects to jobs. This program brings education, democracy, and career training together—ensuring youth understand both their power and their pathways. The goal is to produce a new generation of community-centered professionals who can solve problems, advocate for equity, and access meaningful career opportunities.

Youth (under 24)

Public Housing Residents

Justice Impacted People

People with Disabilities

Limited English Speakers

Immigrants / Migrants

LGBTQIA+ People

Unhoused People