Tzedek Fellows look at the world from multiple perspectives, with an emphasis on racial justice, LGBTQ rights, and combating anti-Semitism. Fellows understand that social change requires that we push against the stories we’ve inherited, and look through an intersectional lens at our own lives, our community, and our society.
Orientation
During the month-long orientation, Fellows deepen their understanding of social justice issues and build a community, creating a network of support and collaboration. Each Fellow explores and identifies their goals for the year ahead and for their overall long-term career path. Fellows then work with staff and community mentors to create individualized action plans for developing the skills they need to accomplish their professional goals, cultivate self care, and enact enduring social change
Training
Training includes on-the-job experience at a host organization for 30 hours a week and personal and professional training for 10 hours a week. Training is delivered by Tzedek staff, along with local and national leaders. Weekly personal and professional training may include:
- Attending a Fellow forum focused on everything from coalition building in the South to nonviolent communication
- Co-working with other Fellows to craft blog posts, create a community workshop, and develop other tangible skills
- Attending community events around social justice including lectures by renowned activists and thought leaders like Janet Mock and voter registration campaigns at local high schools
- Participating in national conferences like Creating Change, Facing Race, and the White Privilege Conference.
Professional Development
Tzedek offers a professional development stipend that may be used to earn or maintain professional credentials; take academic coursework; attend conferences, workshops, trainings, or other learning opportunities; prepare for graduate school; join a membership association; purchase books, magazines, or subscriptions; or any other opportunity that may enhance the individual’s career pathway.
Mentor Check-Ins
As part of ongoing coaching and mentoring, Fellows check in with their supervisor once per week and with their Tzedek mentor once a month. Supervisors and Tzedek mentors offer reflections and feedback, as well as ample resources and practical guidance.
Deliverables
The Fellow experience includes creating professional development plans with specific goals. Goals differ from Fellow to Fellow and can be as diverse as stepping into a supervisory role, launching a new project or venture, enhancing training or facilitation skills, becoming a highly skilled community organizer, or expanding grant writing and fundraising skills. Fellows also develop an online digital presence, through blogging and and social media writing.
Social Events
Whether it’s a movie night, book club, taking a Hood Huggers tour, attending a literary or cultural event like the Moth Story Slam or Ms. Gay Latina, Fellows have the chance to hang out, share experiences, form friendships, and become a tight-knit group.