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Call for

Community Engagement Exchange Program

Organisation Name:

IREX

Grant Amount: Fully Funded

Application Deadline:

22 May 2025

About Organisation

The organization is committed to building a just, inclusive, and prosperous world by empowering individuals and strengthening communities. Instead of focusing on infrastructure development, the organization prioritizes human potential—supporting individuals and institutions in their efforts to drive meaningful change from within their communities. The organization believes in people-driven transformation and fosters global connections by building bridges between nations through shared learning and cooperation.

Persistent challenges like poverty, social injustice, and authoritarianism continue to hold back communities across the globe. By investing in individuals who are catalysts for change, the organization fosters leadership, civic engagement, and local problem-solving. These efforts help ensure that governments serve their people, communities flourish, and individuals are equipped with the tools and knowledge to lead impactful initiatives. At the core of their mission is the belief that sustainable change is possible when local voices are empowered and global collaboration is encouraged. Through capacity-building programs, mentorship, and international exchanges, the organization envisions a world where leadership is inclusive and transformative, rooted in empathy, equity, and active participation.

About the Grant

The Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program is a year-long fellowship that nurtures young civil society leaders, equipping them with the tools and networks needed to address pressing global challenges. It provides a transformative leadership experience to emerging changemakers between the ages of 21 and 27, focusing on civic engagement, social innovation, and community impact.

The program begins with a three-month practicum in the United States, where fellows work directly with civil society organizations, gaining hands-on experience and mentorship. This is followed by participation in the Leadership and Civic Engagement Academy, which includes workshops, coaching, and peer learning. Fellows then return to their home countries to implement a tailored Community Engagement Project (CEP), applying their newly acquired skills in real-world scenarios.

The CEE Exchange also includes a reciprocal visit from U.S. hosts and specialists, who support the implementation of the CEP abroad, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and bringing back valuable insights to their own communities. The program aims to build a global network of leaders committed to inclusive, community-driven change. Through CEE, fellows become part of a vibrant international community working to build healthier, more engaged, and more resilient societies.

Who can Apply?

The CEE Program invites young civil society and community leaders aged 21 to 27 to apply for this fully funded opportunity. Applicants must be citizens of eligible countries and currently reside and work in their home countries. Special consideration may be extended to individuals holding refugee status who are actively working to support their home communities.

Applicants must demonstrate at least two years of relevant professional or volunteer experience in civil society or community development. They should be actively involved in a community engagement initiative and express a strong intent to continue working in the civil society sector. The program seeks individuals who are passionate about driving social impact and are committed to leading positive change.

Candidates must be able to travel to the United States in 2026 and obtain a J-1 visa. They should also be willing to return to their home country upon program completion to implement their planned Community Engagement Project. Proficiency in spoken and written English is required, and semifinalists will need to take the Duolingo English test. Finalists must be capable of effective communication in English across a variety of topics, demonstrating a solid understanding of both abstract and practical subjects.

How to Apply?

To apply for the 2026 Community Engagement Exchange Program, eligible candidates must complete an online application during the official application window. The form includes questions about the applicant’s background, experience, and vision for community engagement. Applicants should be prepared to detail their current initiatives and future goals, as well as demonstrate English proficiency. Shortlisted candidates will proceed through a semifinalist selection process, including a language assessment.

Application Deadline

The application period for the 2026 CEE Program is open from April 23, 2025, to May 22, 2025. All applications must be submitted before the deadline for consideration.


Last Date To Apply 
The final date to submit your application for the Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program is May 22, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances.


Grant Amount
The CEE Fellowship is fully funded, covering travel, accommodation, living expenses, and program activities during the U.S. practicum and community project implementation, ensuring equal opportunity for all selected participants.

Last Date To Apply
22 May 2025

For more information, please visit the grant website here.