Community Engagement Fellowship
Community Engagement Fellowship - Summer 2026
The Community Engagement Fellowship (CEF) is a paid, 8 - 10 week summer program for undergraduate and graduate students interested in law, public service, and community advocacy. Fellows are placed at public defender offices across the U.S. and gain hands-on experience supporting holistic defense and community-based projects.
Fellows receive professional development, mentorship, and the opportunity to deepen their understanding of how legal systems impact communities. Past placements have included roles in client advocacy, participatory defense, communications, social work support, legal observation, research, and more.
Program Benefits:
- $4,000 Fellowship Stipend
- Optional Housing Stipend
- Weekly virtual learning sessions with leaders in the field
- Supportive community of peers and mentors
Ideal Candidates:
We welcome applications from students who are passionate about justice, systems change, and community-centered approaches to legal support. No prior legal experience is required.
Application Deadline: February 27, 2026
Fellowships run from late May through early August. Start and end dates may vary slightly by host site.
We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
Apply using the link below and reach out to programs@blackdefender.org with any questions.