FUNDED TO WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES : Apply to become a Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program Mentor 2025

The Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program is actively seeking experienced civil society professionals to serve as CEE Mentors for the 2026 program. Mentors will play a vital role in guiding and supporting CEE Fellows, who are emerging civil society leaders from around the world. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a global network of changemakers and foster the next generation of leaders.

What is the CEE Program?

The CEE Program is a year-long, fully funded leadership development experience for civil society leaders aged 21-27. It’s a U.S. Department of State initiative, with funding from the U.S. government and implemented by IREX. The program’s core goal is to equip these visionaries with the skills, expertise, and resources to build healthy, engaged communities globally.

The program includes several components:

• Three-Month U.S.-Based Practicum: Fellows are matched with civil society organizations across the United States for a hands-on professional practicum.
• Leadership and Civic Engagement Academy: A blended-learning curriculum that includes virtual and in-person training, mentorship, and professional coaching.
• Community Engagement Project (CEP): Fellows design and implement a project in their home country with guidance from their U.S. host organization and mentors.
• A Global Network: CEE builds a lasting network of leaders who collaborate to address critical 21st-century issues.

The Role of a CEE Mentor

CEE Mentors are seasoned civil society experts who provide guidance, perspective, and support to CEE Fellows throughout their program journey. Mentors are essential in helping fellows navigate their U.S. practicum, develop their leadership skills, and plan their community engagement projects. This role goes beyond simple advice; it’s about building a relationship that empowers the fellow to reach their full potential.

Mentor responsibilities include:

• Virtual Engagement: Participate in a pre-departure orientation and two virtual live sessions between November 2025 and March 2026.
• In-Person Events: Attend a three-day Mentor Development Training and Welcome Orientation in Chicago in March 2026, and a three-day End of Program Workshop in Washington, D.C. in June 2026.
• Ongoing Support: Meet with assigned mentees at least once a month during the U.S. practicum (April-June 2026) and provide formal feedback on their Community Engagement Project submissions.

Who Should Apply to be a Mentor?

The CEE Program is seeking experienced civil society professionals who are committed to fostering the next generation of leaders. The competition is merit-based and open to candidates who meet specific criteria.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Age: Be 28 years of age or older at the time of application.
• Experience: Have a minimum of four years of professional or volunteer experience in civil society and community engagement.
• Citizenship: Be a U.S. citizen or a citizen of one of the CEE-eligible countries.
• Exchange Program Alumni: Non-U.S. citizens must have good standing as an alumnus of a U.S. government-funded exchange program.
• Proficiency: Be proficient in spoken and written English.
• Availability: Be available to attend all required in-person and virtual program activities.

Benefits of Becoming a CEE Mentor

Serving as a CEE Mentor offers numerous benefits for personal and professional growth. It’s an opportunity to expand your global network, refine your leadership and coaching skills, and contribute to meaningful social impact. Selected mentors will receive training and support from experienced facilitators and have the chance to collaborate on impactful community projects. The program also provides opportunities for mentors to apply for travel grants to further support their fellows’ initiatives and deliver workshops in their own communities