Trainings & Fellowships

Change Challenge Scholarship

Dates: Application Opens: May 26, 2026

Time Requirement: 1-2 Hours

Application Deadline: July 31, 2026

Apply

The Vision

You have a vision for your community. We have the resources to help you reach it. Apply for a $2,000 scholarship to support your education while you design the future of your neighborhood.

Your community has power. You have the ideas. 

You know the strengths of your neighborhood better than anyone. You see the potential in your school, your street, and your city. The Change Challenge is not about looking for what is wrong. It is about growing what is possible. We are looking for students who want to take a great idea and turn it into a plan that makes life better and more connected for everyone.

 

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What You Gain

Invest in your future while you invest in others.

  • $2,000 Scholarship: 20 winners will receive a scholarship.
  • Build Your Toolkit: Gain the skills to move from an idea to a real-world plan.
  • Expert Connections: Get feedback from mentors who are already leading change in their own fields.
  • Join the Movement: Become part of a national network of young leaders who are reimagining what leadership looks like.

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Scholarship Details

 

Dates: Application Opens: May 26, 2026

Time Requirement: 1-2 Hours

Application Deadline: July 31, 2026

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How to Apply

Simple steps to share your vision.

  1. Dream It: Think about a specific way you want to see your community grow or improve.
  2. Show It: Share your idea with us in a creative format that includes your voice and perspective.

    You can submit:

    • A 3-minute video
    • A 5-slide presentation with voiceover
    • A 2-page visual guide with voiceover

    We want to hear directly from you and see your creativity.

  3. Submit and Win: If you are selected, you will receive a $2,000 scholarship.
  4. Take a look at one of last year’s winners.

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Ready to Apply?

Applications are open until July 31, 2026. You do not have to wait until you graduate to make an impact. Your lived experience is your greatest asset, and your community is ready for your leadership. Let us build something great together.

 

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What We’re Looking For

Your submission should clearly explain:

The change you want to see in your community and why it matters
Your idea or solution and how it supports your community in a meaningful way
How you would bring your idea to life, including potential partners or community support
How you would engage others through leadership, advocacy, or collaboration
The impact you hope to create and how you would measure success

We also encourage you to consider how LEE resources could help support your vision and goals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is the Change Challenge Scholarship?

The Change Challenge Scholarship invites you to envision positive change in your local community and develop a comprehensive plan to make that vision a reality. Participants identify community needs, propose culturally responsive and equitable solutions, and create a presentation detailing their implementation plan. The challenge encourages civic engagement, leadership development, and community-centered thinking. Selected recipients will receive a $2000 scholarship to support their educational journey.

Do I have to be a straight-A student?

We care more about your vision and your heart for your community than your grades. If you have a plan to make things better and are currently enrolled in a post-high school program, we want to see it.

Do I have to be a LEE member to participate in the challenge?

Yes, you must be a LEE member to participate in the Change Challenge scholarship.

What benefits do participants receive for participating in the challenge?

All Participants, whether awarded or not, have an opportunity to explore their civic leadership lens, developing valuable leadership, advocacy, and presentation skills while gaining experience in addressing civic issues.

What should my project focus on?

Anything that helps your community thrive. This could be about making education more accessible, creating safe spaces for youth, improving local health, or making sure everyone has a voice.

Who can I talk to if I have questions?

Reach out to Jorge Ochoa at jorge.ochoa@wearelee.org. We have your back!

Does my issue need to be civic-focused?

Yes, it does. Your civic issue can address any community challenge. Topics might include public health, environmental sustainability, transportation, housing, or any other area where you see opportunity for meaningful change.

What level of detail is expected for measuring impact?

While comprehensive evaluation expertise isn’t expected, your submission should include thoughtful metrics for success. Consider both quantitative measures (number of participants, resources distributed) and qualitative indicators (community feedback, observed improvements). Focus on realistic metrics that meaningfully demonstrate progress toward your clear goals and desired outcomes.