The Stoneleigh Emerging Leader Fellowship is a two-year program designed to provide early-career professionals in the Greater Philadelphia area with hands-on experience in advancing systems change to improve youth outcomes. Fellows partner with host organizations to work on specific projects that align with both the organization's goals and the Fellow's professional development. The Fellowship targets key areas such as youth justice, child welfare, education, and health, with a focus on improving policies and practices that affect these systems.

The purpose of this Fellowship is to develop emerging leaders from various fields—such as law, social work, public administration, and education—who are committed to social justice and systemic reform. Fellows engage in activities like policy advocacy, research, legal strategies, and coalition building to advance meaningful changes. The program equips Fellows with skills necessary for leadership roles while simultaneously contributing to the host organization's mission. Stoneleigh Fellows are proactive, organized, and motivated to tackle social challenges, making this an ideal opportunity for those seeking to impact youth-serving systems.

The Fellowship offers funding and support for projects that are strategic and significant to both the host organization and the Fellow’s career development. Fellows receive a strong support system, including mentorship from a supervisor within their host organization and guidance from a Stoneleigh program officer. The program places a strong emphasis on career growth, providing a professional development stipend and helping Fellows build a long-term professional development plan. Furthermore, Fellows become part of a broader network, connecting with a cohort of peers and alumni for additional learning and collaboration.

Eligibility for the Fellowship includes both individuals and organizations. Host organizations apply by submitting a two-page project summary, outlining a proposed initiative that aligns with the Fellowship’s goals of systemic change. Once selected, these organizations participate in a candidate recruitment process, and the final Fellows are chosen in collaboration with Stoneleigh and its Board of Directors. The application period for organizations interested in hosting a Fellow for the 2025-2027 cycle is currently open, while the application window for individual candidates will open in Spring 2025.

The Fellowship is attractive to both Fellows and host organizations. Fellows gain substantial leadership experience, strategic insight, and access to a wide professional network, all of which contribute to long-term career success. Host organizations, in turn, benefit from having highly skilled individuals working on important projects that can raise their visibility and impact. Organizations also play a critical role in nurturing the next generation of social change leaders through direct mentorship and project oversight.

Stoneleigh provides support throughout the Fellowship, offering training and resources for supervisors, as well as ongoing guidance from a dedicated program officer. This ensures that both the Fellow and the host organization have the tools and support needed to make the Fellowship project a success. The Fellowship’s unique structure offers a collaborative and impactful way for both Fellows and host organizations to make meaningful contributions to youth-serving systems.