“The Foundation works closely with select host organizations to design high-quality, transformative experiences that develop our Fellows’ leadership skills,” said Priscilla Cohen, Executive Director of the FAO Schwarz Family Foundation. “In a year marked by a tragic pandemic and social unrest, developing young leaders is more important than ever, Nonprofits around the country are engaged in radically rethinking their work and how they deliver their services. At the same time, we know graduating seniors have had their educational experiences disrupted and are now facing a tumultuous job market. We’re grateful we can provide these talented future leaders with a paid two-year professional experience—and a front-row seat to what we think will be an incredibly dynamic period of intense social change.”

The Fellows’ dedication to social change serves as an inspiration to hosts who take their responsibility for the Fellows’ professional development seriously. “It is critical for museums and cultural institutions to provide growth and learning opportunities for the next generation of change agents in the field,” said Barbara Wong, Director of Community Engagement at the Barnes Foundation, which is hosting a FAO Schwarz Fellow for the first time. Jumpstart President and COO Jennifer Templeman agrees. “We must all play a role in developing the young leaders who will create innovative and tangible ways to address inequities for the next generation.“

Host organizations also appreciate the value of increased organizational capacity that comes with hosting a Fellow.  Tim Whitaker, Executive Director of  Mighty Writers,  said “In light of the pandemic, it’s all hands on deck at Mighty Writers. To be effective, you need to be able to pivot quickly to meet the needs of the moment. Having a young fellow onboard that brings enthusiasm and energy to MW will be invaluable in this moment.”

Director of Education and Outreach Programs Sharon Horrigan at the Museum of Science in Boston makes a similar point. “Supporting the agency of young social impact leaders at the Museum of Science will help the organization be a relevant and purposeful community partner that inspires, innovates, and contributes to positive local and global social change.”

Two of the host organizations selected this year have previously hosted a FAO Schwarz Fellow. “We have consistently found FAO Schwarz Fellows bring unique perspective and insight to our work with young adults, and enrich the site in which they work,” noted Elaine Chow, Chief Human Resources Officer at Year Up, which is currently hosting two FAO Schwarz Fellows, which will be hosting two new Fellows, has also hosted previously.  CEO, Naila Bolus said, “FAO Schwarz Fellows consistently bring insightful, invaluable support to Jumpstart’s policy work and community programs, helping us make meaningful progress on our goals.”