CLCAF Summer Fellowship Program

About the Program

The California Latino Capitol Association Foundation (CLCAF) hosts an annual fellowship program where a cohort of rising professionals have the opportunity to gain 10 weeks of experience working as a CLCAF fellow for an Assemblymember, State Senator, State Agency, Non-profit, or an Advocacy Organization in Sacramento, CA.  

The CLCAF Fellowship Program strives to provide an opportunity for rising professionals, particularly those from underserved communities, a chance to gain a meaningful professional experience in public service, and a foot in the door into a career in Sacramento. CLCAF Fellows are trained, mentored, and supported by experienced Capitol staff. Program participants are also given professional and academic development workshops along with educational webinars and networking opportunities.

Fellows will receive a $6,800 stipend, and upon conclusion, CLCAF hosts a ceremony for Fellows to recognize their work and contributions.  To learn more about the fellowship program, please contact co-chairs@clcaf.org

APPLICATION IS OPEN

Application is open to anyone 21 years of age or older, this includes but is not limited to: current community college, undergraduate, or graduate students, or recent graduates. Folks from underserved communities are encouraged to apply!

APPLY HERE

2026 FAQ

Who is Eligible?

Anyone 21 years of age or older, this includes but is not limited to: current community college, undergraduate, or graduate students, or recent graduates. Folks from underserved communities are encouraged to apply.

Will the Fellowship be in-person?

The fellowship will be in person in Sacramento, CA.

Is Housing Provided?

While housing is not provided within the scope of the fellowship program, the allocated stipend is designed to encompass living expenses, inclusive of housing-related costs.

What Does the Time Commitment Look Like?

Fellows are expected to participate from June 15 to August 22. Fellows are expected to participate Monday to Friday, full time, 40 hours per week.

Are undocumented students/ students without a social security number (SSN) eligible to apply?

The fellowship does not require a SSN to complete an application. We work with a variety of different host offices each year (state legislature, state agencies, nonprofit offices, and lobbying firms), and do our best to ensure there are no barriers for people without a SSN. We encourage all folks to apply for our fellowship, regardless of immigration status. If a host office requires a valid SSN or work authorization, we will be sure to communicate that to the accepted participants in advance and do our best to place the participant in an office they are able to fully complete their fellowship.

When will we receive an update on our application?

We anticipate applicants will receive an update on their application in Spring of 2026.

How competitive is the selection process?

It is a competitive program but we encourage everyone who is interested to apply. We look at applications holistically, and value a wide range of experiences and interests.

Can I apply if I am not 21?

In order to be eligible for the program, you must be 21 by June 15, 2026.

What does the application process look like?

Fellows must submit their applications by the deadline. Once the board has reviewed all submissions, applicants will be contacted via email to schedule interviews. After the interviews are completed, fellows will receive an update by email by SPRING 2026.

How do placements work, if I am admitted into the fellowship program?

Fellows apply to the program itself and once they are admitted, they will have an opportunity to interview for their specific placement so we can help match them with the best fit!