The
Benjamin Lay Fellowship Program offers a 10-week leadership training and internship program grounded in Quaker history and values. The program engages participants in creative, impactful service-learning projects involving peace and social concerns endorsed by local monthly meetings of the Religious Society of Friends. Interns will work on teams with one another and alongside active Quakers to design and implement projects. Interns are expected to dedicate efforts of approximately ten hours per week over a 10-week time frame. The effort will include self-scheduled work on the projects and also participation in five leadership development workshops offered as part of the program. These workshops are included within the 10 hours per week commitment.
Interns are also invited to join fellowship activities with the participating Quaker meeting communities.
Participants will receive a $2,000 stipend plus coverage of approved travel and project-related expenses. Program participants will enjoy making a meaningful impact on an important social project, building relationships with active Quakers, learning about Quaker history and values, and developing leadership strengths and skills that will help them succeed throughout their lives and careers.
Successful applicants will express sincere interest in Quakerism and social projects involving topics such as ecojustice, antiracism, world peace and human rights, LGTBQ concerns, and economic equity, among others. The program seeks to engage second and third year students from local colleges and universities. The program is scheduled to commence in the Spring 2024 semester.
