
FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
At Drive Change, we are redefining what success looks like - proving that investing in young people of color, instead of locking them up, is economically smart at both the individual and societal levels.


YOU BRING THE DREAM, WE BRING THE TOOLS.
The Drive Change Fellowship is a three-month paid learning and skill-building program for justice-involved young people. Fellows gain skills to support life, workplace, and emotional well-being on their path to becoming agents of change.
FELLOW COMMITMENTS
By participating in the Fellowship Program, fellows commit to Drive Change’s core values:
EDUCATION
HUNGER TO LEARN MORE
Oftentimes, the most impactful answer to a question is, “I don’t know.” The fellows who thrive come to the Fellowship with a hunger to learn more and an excitement to have their minds changed.
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HOSPITALITY
THE POWER OF CARE
We believe in the power of care - of hospitality - to create the social change we so desperately need in our world. We live this value as a daily practice of gratitude and generosity.
COURAGE
PLACE TO EXPERIMENT
The Drive Change Fellowship is a place to experiment and make mistakes. Growth requires taking risks and learning from them.
INNOVATION
DREAMS COMING TRUE
The Drive Change Fellowship is a place to dream. Come here ready to be told that you CAN be successful.
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COLLECTIVE ACCOUNTABILITY
COLLABORATING FOR A STRONG FUTURE
You’ve got a dream, and we’ve got the tools. But the work doesn’t stop there — we collaborate on bringing your vision to life and by sharing in holding each other accountable for the work.
EMPOWERING YOUTH THROUGH SOCIAL IMPACT AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Without meaningful career opportunities, justice-involved young people remain stuck in a cycle of poverty, disenfranchisement, and legal system involvement. At Drive Change, we are committed to changing those statistics.



DETAILS
Things to know before you apply:
The Fellowship Program is a three (3) month commitment, and you have the ability to earn up to $7,000 upon completion of the program.
Fellows are expected to be in attendance daily, Monday - Thursday, from 10am until 4pm.
CURRICULUM INCLUDES
- Culinary training: knife skills and cooking techniques
- Food Handlers Certification
- Financial literacy training
- Interpersonal skills development and critical thinking
- Access to therapy with a licensed therapist
- Networking with other food and beverage industry leaders for networking and learning opportunities
- Exploration of future career opportunities at Drive Change Foods
WHO QUALIFIES TO BE A FELLOW
- You are 18-25 years of age
- You have been detained, arrested, sentenced to jail/prison, or other alternative to incarceration program
- You would like to explore career opportunities in the hospitality/restaurant industry
- You are interested in learning more about food justice and how it impacts our lives and communities
- You are able to attend training Monday - Thursday 10am to 4pm for 8 weeks
- During the final 4 weeks, your schedule must accommodate employer hours as you prepare to transition to full time work

APPLY TO BE A FELLOW
Are you ready to change your life and take the next step toward a meaningful career in food and hospitality?
FOOD IS A RIGHT. COMMUNITY IS A GIFT.

Drive Change has taught me the most valuable thing in life — that it's never too late to set another goal or to dream a new dream.
Brianna, Fall 2024
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Take it seriously. Show persistence, work hard, and Drive Change will meet you with the same energy. If you commit to the program, it will change your life.
Jahssiah, Fall 2024
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Drive Change helps you navigate life and the workforce, teaching us valuable work and life skills. I’ll never forget this program, and 100% don’t have a single ounce of regret coming here.
Rafael, Spring 2025
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GOT QUESTIONS? WE'VE GOT ANSWERS!
DRIVE CHANGE
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