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Emerson National Hunger Fellowship: Applications Open for 2025-2026

Are you passionate about fighting hunger and poverty in the United States? Do you want to develop your leadership skills while gaining hands-on experience in community and policy work? The Bill Emerson National Hunger Fellowship might be the perfect opportunity for you!

The Emerson Fellowship is a prestigious program run by the Congressional Hunger Center that develops effective leaders in the movement to end hunger and poverty in the U.S. For over 30 years, more than 500 Emerson Fellows have worked in communities across 48 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C., expanding the capacity of nearly 300 local, regional, and national organizations.

Program Structure

Throughout the year-long program, fellows participate in in-person trainings, retreats, and professional development sessions to hone essential skills and form a strong professional cohort. The fellowship is divided into two main phases:

  1. Community Placement: Fellows spend the first half of the program working with community-based organizations throughout the U.S.
  2. Policy Placement: In mid-February, fellows return to Washington, D.C., to work with organizations and government agencies focused on national anti-hunger and anti-poverty policy.

How to Apply

Applications for the 2025-2026 Emerson Fellowship are now open until January 17, 2025. To start your application:

  1. Review the program overview for prospective applicants.
  2. Learn about the program structure and application process.
  3. Check out examples of fellows at work.
  4. Start Your Application Here   

Why Apply?

The Emerson Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to:

  • Gain hands-on experience in both community and policy work.
  • Develop leadership skills.
  • Work with diverse organizations across the country.
  • Join a network of passionate individuals fighting hunger and poverty.

For more information and to start your application, visit the Congressional Hunger Center website.

Note: The application deadline is January 17, 2025. Make sure to submit your application before this date to be considered for the program.