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In partnership with Urban College of Boston, Vital Village Networks is accepting applications for scholarships to the Certificate in Community Leadership and Advocacy, a year-long, 9-credit, college-level certificate program that builds upon the capabilities of community leaders who are working to maximize child, family, and community wellbeing in Boston. This certificate is for those who serve in formal and informal roles doing community organizing, policy change, or advocacy for children and families to prepare them to address the aspects of professional development in this field. Students will acquire tools and develop skills to serve as better advocates for children and families. Classes will tentatively be held virtually on Wednesday evenings from 6 PM to 9 PM for two semesters, beginning September 3, 2025, and running through December 10, 2025. A hands-on 3-credit, 90-hour externship project will take place from January 21, 2026, to May 13, 2026. Courses:
Scholarship Details: APPLY BY FRIDAY 8/1/2025! Scholarship recipients will have limited out-of-pocket expenses (no more than $75 - including the cost of a textbook and cap & gown for graduation). However, we ask that all Scholarship recipients apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) as standard for all higher education institutions. We will offer support in this process. FASFA application for those who qualify for a Pell Grant or the Urban College Institutional Aid, this will count toward your scholarship from Vital Village. For those who do not qualify, Vital Village will cover the costs of tuition and fees for the 9 credits of the Certificate. Recipients of this scholarship are expected to engage fully in both semesters of coursework and complete the 90-hour externship. In addition to your academic commitments, you will have the opportunity to attend the Annual National Community Leadership Summit on October 23-24, 2025, and present at the Innovations and Inspirations Night during the June 8, 2026, Network Connection Meeting. You will also create a compelling summary of your experiences in a format of your choice (e.g., blog post, TED-style talk, etc.). APPLY BY FRIDAY 8/1/2025!
Applicant Details
Are you a member of Vital Village?
Due to our commitment to equity and Urban College's mission, we seek to offer opportunities to members of communities that have not been traditionally included in college-level advocacy training opportunities.
Please assess the reasons that motivate you to apply for this certificate:
If other, please describe
Written Responses
While previous experience is not required, please describe your involvement in your community or with children and families.
Scholarship Interest and Commitment
Please check each box below if you are able to commit to the full Certificate program including the three elements listed:
Fall Semester: (Wednesdays 6-9pm 9/7/2022 - 12/14/2022); Spring Semester: (Wednesdays 6-9pm 1/25/2023 - 5/10/2023); Externship: (90 hours between 1/25/2023 - 5/10/2023).
Would you still be able to participate in the Certificate program without a full or partial scholarship?
Scholarships will cover any costs of tuition for the 9 credits of the Certificate that are not covered by Pell Grants or Urban College's Institutional Financial Aid. Please note that all selected scholarship recipients will be asked to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if they may qualify for a Pell Grant.
How did you hear about this opportunity?
Scholars agree to commit to a 90-hour an externship project (either an independent project or affiliated with a partner organization) between January and May 2023 following the completion of the first semester. Describe your ability to complete this externship.
To what extend did you UNDERSTAND each of the following
How well did you DO each of the following
