OUR PROGRAM
ABOUT US
We are a youth-leadership development organization. Our goal is to encourage students like you to explore local and global leadership experiences to develop as leaders and impact the community.
We want to provide you with the tools, confidence and opportunity to direct your own destiny, as well as the drive to dismantle societal and structural barriers towards a more equitable community for all.
If you are a passionate, motivated to make change, and care about investing in yourself and the community, please apply!
WHO WE SERVE
Our fellows come from diverse racial backgrounds including African-American, Cuban, of European Descent, Jamaican-American, Latinx, Mexican Native American, Polynesian, Somalian, and White American. We are proud to work with students from historically underserved communities to do our part in leveling the playing field. All of our fellows are also on free and reduced lunch.
Founded: 2015
Students Served: 62
Average Community Service Hours: 33
A TIMELINE ABOUT THE COMMITMENT OF OUR PROGRAM IS OUTLINED BELOW:
March - June
The program begins in March with local meetings and community projects through June
Advocacy Projects are focused on environmental, art and social justice issues
During this time we will meet about twice a month
June - July
Global Leadership trips vary from 1-3 weeks through June-July
Destinations include Costa Rica, Panama or Puerto Rico
Fellowship covers the cost of travel
October - November
Advocacy Projects continue and finalize in October - November
Future Opportunities
Stay involved as an alum
We can provide college recommendations
Individualized support
Unity Through Arts
Art is a way of expressing the times, needs of community, and voices of individuals. Through public art projects with community members, our fellows share power and perspectives through what they create. Projects in this sector include developing murals, digital magazine publication, community art exhibits and documentary film. Partners include Color Outside the Lines, Metro East Media, Salomée Souag, and diverse local artists.
Our Naturehood
A relationship with the natural world and access to clean air, clean water and green spaces is essential for all communities. These community projects range from habitat restoration, to park clean ups and community gardening. Our partners include Oregon Wild, Forest Park Conservancy, Jacobsen Salt Co. Beekeeping Program and Camp Yoshi.
Global Leadership
International opportunities for service-learning trips abroad allow our youth to put their social-advocacy leadership model into action, all while learning language and absorbing new cultures. Our youth travel to collaborate with community advocates and stakeholders across the world to build projects for lasting community impact. We partner with Global Works Travel, PBC, to spearhead these projects.
FAQs
How often are mentor meet ups?
Mentor meet ups begin in March through June and will happen 1-3 times a month.
Where will the meetings take place?
Our meetings are all around the Portland Metro area.
What if I don’t have my passport yet?
This program is a full scholarship program therefore, Wonderfolk will support you in getting a passport should you have all the necessary documents needed.
Does Wonderfolk provide transportation to get to the meet ups?
Yes, We find creative ways to get you to and from our programming.
Where can I find the application?
www.wonderfolk.org/apply
Do I need to pay for the trip abroad?
Our fellowship covers the cost of travel!
What is the application process?
The application includes a few short essay questions and 2 letters of recommendation (one from a parent and one from a teacher, mentor, counselor, etc.)
The Application process includes the application (see above) and a potential interview.