Project Optimism Service Learning (2026)At — Project Optimism

Opportunity Summary 

Project Optimism offers experience for students interested in gaining hands-on experience in youth development, community engagement, social justice, and advocacy. Interns will support meaningful projects such as youth listening sessions, community events, storytelling and communications, local research, and advocacy efforts. This service-learning opportunity allows students to build professional skills while contributing to initiatives that uplift youth voices and strengthen communities.

80% of this experience will be in person and some remote opportunities. There is a structure to this effort that may not align with all student due to when student will need to be at the service site.

Opportunity Learning Outcomes 

Gain hands-on experience in youth development, community engagement, and social justice initiatives.
Strengthen professional communication, research, storytelling, and community engagement skills.
Develop experience planning and supporting youth listening sessions, community events, and culturally responsive programming.
Build skills in advocacy, policy communication, and community-based research.
Increase understanding of local issues and disparities affecting youth and communities of color.

Opportunity Training 

Project Optimism Orientation: Mission, programs, organizational culture, expectations, and the intern's role.
Youth Development & Engagement: Building positive relationships with youth, youth voice, appropriate boundaries, and culturally responsive engagement.
Mandated Reporter & Youth Safety: Recognizing and reporting suspected abuse or neglect, confidentiality, professional boundaries, and safety expectations.
Research & Data Ethics: Responsible collection and use of community information, confidentiality, informed consent, and appropriate handling of participant data.

Opportunity Application Instructions 

Reach out to the site supervisor to confirm availability. Then complete the required S4 onboarding forms.

The following are required to work on site. Please contact the CCE for associated costs to be covered. 

  • Background Check (e.g. fingerprinting/livescan, driving record)
  • Computer Literacy
  • TB Test
Program 
Service Learning
Location Type 
Hybrid (combination of on-site and remote)
Location 
United States
Expected Hours 
HoursDuration
30hours per academic year
Students required to have a personal vehicle 
No
Fees students may incur with this opportunity 
Background Check (e.g., fingerprinting, live scans, driving record)
TB tests
This opportunity provides some form of compensation 
No
Opportunity Availability 
Ongoing