Youth Empowerment
Richmond Rising Youth Fellow Program
Author: Gabriela Zacarias Lopez – TCC Youth Fellow Project Manager
Richmond Rising Youth Fellows Program:
Empowering the Next Generation of Climate Leaders
The Richmond Rising Youth Fellows Program is a groundbreaking initiative empowering young people to lead the way in community engagement, climate equity, and sustainable development. As a cornerstone of Richmond Rising’s “Healthy, Connected, Climate Strong” initiative, the program is funded by a $35 million grant from California’s Strategic Growth Council through the Transformative Climate Communities (TCC) Program. The grant is shared with the City of Richmond and Richmond Rising partners. This effort seeks to bring environmental, economic, and health improvements to Richmond’s Iron Triangle, Santa Fe, and Coronado neighborhoods, with projects running through 2028.
The Richmond Rising Youth Fellows Program will be overseen by program manager Gabriela Zacarias. Youth Fellows will play a pivotal role in advancing Richmond Rising’s transformative goals. From assisting with bike lane construction and tree planting to facilitating workforce development initiatives, these young leaders commit to a year of hands-on community involvement. Their work not only drives positive change but also empowers them with the skills and experience to be lifelong advocates for environmental justice. The program provides comprehensive training in climate equity, community engagement, and project-specific tasks, preparing participants to actively contribute to impactful initiatives. Youth Fellows will lead activities such as hosting community bike rides, conducting resident interviews, and participating in informational solar power workshops. They will also engage with residents at local events and present key updates during the monthly Collaborative Stakeholder Committee (CSC) meetings, ensuring that community voices remain at the heart of Richmond Rising’s mission.
Eligibility is open to individuals aged 16 to 24 who live, work, or study in the program’s target neighborhoods. Youth fellows will work up to 10 hours per month and have the flexibility to operate at various project sites including the program’s main office at Rich City Rides in Richmond, California. To support their efforts, participants will also receive an unlimited AC Transit bus pass during the duration of their fellowship.
Through their dedication, Youth Fellows will contribute to meaningful improvements in their neighborhoods while honing critical skills in leadership, communication, and environmental advocacy. By uniting community voices with actionable climate initiatives, the Richmond Rising Youth Fellows Program is cultivating a healthier, more connected, and resilient Richmond. To learn more about the Richmond Rising Youth Fellow Program visit https://richmondrisingca.org/about/ or email the program manager at gzacariaslopez@richcityrides.org.
Program Updates: We are finalizing offer letters to youth fellows that will be joining the Richmond Rising Youth Fellows Program first cohort. Offer letters will be sent out by February 26, 2025. The youth fellows first training will begin March 2025.
