Young Invincibles is accepting applications for its paid Young Advocates Program in five US regions (NY, IL, CO, TX, CA), targeting young adults aged 18-34. The program focuses on building advocacy, policy, and leadership skills to influence state-level policy on issues like healthcare, education, and economic justice. YI also supports National and State-Based Youth Advisory Boards (YABs).
Young Invincibles Young Advocates Program Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Young Advocates Program (YAP) |
| Program Type | Paid Leadership & Advocacy Fellowship |
| Duration | (Details not specified, typically several months/a year) |
| Compensation | Participants receive compensation for their work. |
| Target Age | 18 to 34 |
| Focus | Policy Advocacy, Organizing, Civic Engagement, Leadership |
| Key Policy Areas | Education, Health Care, Workforce, Economic Justice |
| Required Experience | No prior policy experience is required. |
The Young Advocates Program (YAP)
The Young Advocates Program (YAP) is a paid opportunity for young adults aged 18 to 34 who are eager to become the next generation of community leaders. The program is designed to equip emerging leaders with the skills, experience, and networks needed to influence public policy, strengthen civic participation, and drive meaningful change in their communities.
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Purpose and Core Components
YI’s mission is to ensure young people are heard, valued, and represented in policy decisions. YAP participants contribute directly to this mission by working closely with local YI regional office staff.
Key Program Features
- Advocacy and Organizing Experience:
- Support statewide and regional campaigns on education, healthcare, the workforce, and economic justice.
- Engage communities through outreach, listening sessions, and events.
- Learn effective storytelling, coalition-building, and advocacy strategy.
- Policy and Research Exposure:
- Gain foundational skills in public policy analysis and youth-centered research.
- Assist with monitoring policy developments and contributing to youth-led solutions.
- Professional and Leadership Development:
- Participate in structured workshops on communication, leadership, and career growth.
- Receive mentorship from YI staff and experienced advocates.
- Paid Experience:
- Advocates receive compensation for their work, ensuring equitable access to leadership opportunities by removing financial barriers to participation.
Program Locations
Young Invincibles is actively recruiting Young Advocates to work with the local YI regional office in the following five locations, supporting state-level policy initiatives:
- New York, NY
- Chicago, IL
- Denver, CO
- Houston, TX
- Los Angeles, CA
Youth Engagement at Young Invincibles
In addition to the Young Advocates Program, YI invests in other programs to elevate the presence and influence of young adults in the political process, including its volunteer Youth Advisory Boards (YABs).
National Youth Advisory Board (NYAB)
The NYAB is a diverse, national group of young leaders who advise YI on organizational strategy and help shape national priorities.
- Role: Volunteer.
- Commitment: Meets quarterly with YI staff.
- Impact: Shares personal stories at public events, provides guidance on national-level youth engagement and advocacy strategies, and builds influence within a national network.
State-Based Youth Advisory Boards
State YABs operate in each state where YI has a regional office (California, Colorado, Illinois, New York, and Texas).
- Role: Volunteer.
- Commitment: Meets quarterly with state teams.
- Impact: Provides essential feedback on local campaigns, shapes strategies for community engagement, and serves as youth ambassadors for state-specific issues, ensuring YI’s work is grounded in real-world experiences.
Who Should Apply?
No prior policy experience is required. YI encourages applications from young adults who are:
- Passionate about social justice, equity, and youth empowerment.
- Interested in influencing policy and strengthening civic participation.
- Eager to develop leadership and advocacy skills.
- Motivated to work collaboratively within diverse teams and support community-driven change.
Application Deadline: Not Specified
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the age requirement for the Young Advocates Program?
The program is designed for young adults between the ages of 18 and 34.
2. Is the Young Advocates Program a paid opportunity?
Yes, Young Advocates receive compensation for their work to remove financial barriers and ensure equitable access to this leadership opportunity.
3. Do I need previous policy or advocacy experience to apply?
No. The program is designed to equip emerging leaders. No prior policy experience is required—only passion, commitment, and curiosity to learn and lead.
4. How many cities is the Young Advocates Program operating in?
The program is recruiting in five regional locations: New York, NY; Chicago, IL; Denver, CO; Houston, TX; and Los Angeles, CA.
5. What are the main policy areas the Young Advocates will address?
Advocates support campaigns addressing key youth issues, including education, health care, the workforce, and economic justice.
6. What is the role of the Youth Advisory Boards (YABs)?
YABs (both national and state-based) are volunteer bodies that advise Young Invincibles staff on strategy, organizational priorities, and ensuring campaigns are grounded in youth experiences.
7. What is the difference between the Young Advocates Program and the Youth Advisory Boards?
The Young Advocates Program (YAP) is a paid position involving hands-on work in campaigns and policy analysis. The Youth Advisory Boards (YABs) are volunteer positions focused on advising and guiding organizational strategy.
8. How does the program contribute to professional development?
Participants engage in structured workshops on communication and leadership, receive mentorship from YI staff, and gain practical, hands-on experience in public policy, which supports long-term career growth.
9. How often do the State-Based Youth Advisory Boards meet?
State-Based Youth Advisory Board members meet quarterly with their respective state teams.
10. Does the program focus only on national-level policy?
No. The program works with local YI regional offices to support state-level advocacy and community engagement, ensuring voices are heard in decisions that directly affect their communities.
