Investing in Bold New Voices

For over two decades, Democracy North Carolina has been committed to training and supporting young changemakers across our state. This year, we took that mission a step further with the launch of the Bridge Fellowship—a brand-new pilot program for young adults ages 18–29 in Charlotte and the Western Piedmont who are not currently enrolled in college.

Your donation makes the Bridge Fellowship possible.

From September 2025 to February 2026, Fellows dedicated 10–15 hours a week to grassroots projects in their communities. With a $10,000 stipend and direct mentorship, they gained hands-on experience in civic engagement and built initiatives designed to strengthen local democracy.

Will you help us fund the work of Bridge Fellowship participants?

The Bridge Fellowship is about creating opportunities for emerging leaders who are often left out of traditional pipelines but who bring passion, perspective, and vision to the fight for justice.

Your support is not just a donation; it is an investment in the future of grassroots leadership.

Every contribution moves us closer to a democracy that truly represents all of us.

Thank you for standing with these young leaders and fueling their drive to build lasting change.

#FundOurFellows

Mini-Grant Campaign 2025

The 2025 Bridge Fellowship participants are challenged to raise $500 between Nov 1st and Dec 31st.
Each participating Friendtern will be eligible for an approved project grant of up to $250 from Democracy NC.
Mini-Grant projects will be held in 2026.

Bridge Fellowship Mini-Grant Campaign

By Democracy NC

Bridge Fellowship Mini-Grant Campaign

bold new voices

Team Members