The 2026 internship season is officially underway at Elevate+
We’re excited to share where we are in the process—and what students can expect in the weeks ahead. Each year, our paid summer internships open doors for young people who are eager to gain meaningful work experience, build confidence, and launch their career journeys. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how the cycle works and how we support our students every step of the way.
40 Opportunities Across the Country—and Growing
We’ve already distributed job descriptions for approximately 40 paid internship roles to our talent-sourcing partners across New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Ohio, California, and Washington, DC. These partners—schools, community programs, and youth-serving organizations—play a crucial role in connecting Elevate+ with the students we’re designed to serve: motivated young people from underserved communities who are ready for a transformative professional experience.
These roles span nonprofit and mission-driven organizations, offering students the chance to explore career paths while making an impact in their communities.
Application Portal Opens Later This Month
The Elevate+ application window opens later in January. Students can apply online from their phones, laptops, or desktops, and may select up to three internship opportunities that match their interests.
The application deadline is at the end of February, giving students several weeks to submit strong, thoughtful applications.
To support them, we’ve made the experience simple and accessible—our online form and guidance resources live directly on our website.
Information Sessions Designed for Student Success
To help students put their best foot forward, Elevate+ will host two virtual information sessions. These sessions give prospective applicants a clear picture of what makes our program unique, including:
- Weekly professional development workshops
- Networking opportunities and a Role Model Speaker Series
- Professional headshot photoshoots
- Dedicated mentors who support students throughout the summer
We also walk students through what makes a strong application, what a polished resume looks like, and how to use the resource hub on our website—including tip sheets, sample applications, and videos.
Students leave these sessions feeling informed, encouraged, and far better prepared to apply.
Host Organizations Begin Reviewing in Late February
At the end of February, Elevate+ forwards completed applications to each host organization. From there, hosts manage their own review and interview process, selecting candidates whose interests and strengths align with their mission and work.
Because our hosts are partners in our students’ success, this step is more than just hiring—it’s match-making. We work closely with them to ensure that every student receives a meaningful, supportive placement.
Formalizing the Experience: MOUs for Every Student
Students who receive internship offers sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Elevate+ . The MOU clarifies:
- What Elevate+ expects from each intern (stay engaged, put in best effort, and participate in the professional development sessions)
- What students can expect from Elevate+ (ongoing support, funded wages, and check-ins)
- What they can expect from their host organization (a structured work experience and a dedicated mentor)
This simple but important document helps align expectations and sets each student up for a successful summer. And after completing the MOU, each student receives a $100 "sign-on bonus." This payment is a stipend to provide them with funds before they receive their first paycheck.
Preparing Students for the Workplace
Before the internship begins, all selected students attend one of our Job Readiness sessions—intensive, practical workshops that prepare them for their first professional work environment.
These sessions cover workplace communication, professionalism, time management, teamwork, and the confidence-building skills that help our students feel like they belong. For many of our young people, this is the first time they’re stepping into a professional setting. Our goal is to make sure they walk in ready, equipped, and empowered.
A Summer of Growth Ahead
We’re incredibly excited about the 2026 internship cohort. Our host organizations are strong, our students are eager, and our program continues to grow in depth and quality. Each year, we see firsthand how these internships change trajectories—boosting confidence, building networks, and opening doors that otherwise might remain closed.
We're excited to keep you posted on the placement process -- so stay tuned for updates.
Here’s to another year of opportunity, access, and transformation.
