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We’re looking for the next generation of leaders in the gun violence prevention movement. 

The bold leadership of young activists in this country is essential for the future of gun safety laws. Become a GIFFORDS Courage Fellow to make a difference in your state and save lives. 

Make a Difference

After years of witnessing the devastating impact of gun violence, and the lack of action taken against it, young people across the country are standing up and demanding a safer future. GIFFORDS launched the Courage Fellowship program in 2018 in order to empower young advocates, help them develop leadership skills, and give them opportunities to fight for lifesaving gun safety laws.

Since then, the Courage Fellowship has not only helped put students in the middle of important conversations regarding gun violence prevention, but has also helped them build their organizing and networking skills. With gun violence on the rise, the Courage Fellowship emphasizes the importance of giving the next generation of leaders a voice and the tools to make communities safe.

This year, GIFFORDS has transitioned to a state-based approach to the fellowship, with state-specific classes of Courage Fellows—starting with Texas and Arizona.

Texas Program Details

Over the course of six months, GIFFORDS Courage Fellows will be placed at the heart of the gun violence prevention movement and engage in an array of activities that focus on advocacy and effective organizing, with particular attention paid to upcoming elections. 

As a Courage Fellow, you will have the chance to:

  • Learn from nationally recognized leaders in the gun violence prevention movement.
  • Network with other young activists from Texas, including past Courage Fellows.
  • Develop and implement a gun violence prevention project in your local community.
  • Build critical team building, communication, organizing, and advocacy skills.
  • Meet with legislators to discuss the importance of gun violence prevention efforts.

The primary program components for the Courage Fellowship include:

  • A 3-day training: Location and Date TBD
  • A lobby day at the Texas State Capitol in Austin: March 12–13, 2025
  • Regular check-ins and mentorship opportunities with GIFFORDS staff
  • A 3-day graduation: Location and Date TBD
  • The creation and implementation of a community engagement project with support from GIFFORDS

Applicants should have a demonstrated interest in politics, community organizing, activism, or volunteerism; be willing to learn new skills, have a strong desire to become (or already are) active in the gun violence prevention movement, and be between the ages of 17 and 24.

Questions? Email couragefellows@giffords.org


Arizona Program Details

Over the course of six months, Giffords Courage Fellows will be placed at the heart of the gun violence prevention movement and engage in an array of activities that focus on advocacy and effective organizing, with particular attention paid to upcoming elections. 

As a Courage Fellow, you will have the chance to:

  • Learn from nationally recognized leaders in the gun violence prevention movement.
  • Network with other young activists from Arizona, including past Courage Fellows. 
  • Develop and implement a gun violence prevention project in your local community.
  • Build critical team building, communication, organizing, and advocacy skills.
  • Meet with legislators to discuss the importance of gun violence prevention efforts.

The primary program components for the Arizona Courage Fellowship include:

  • A 3-day training in Tucson: Date TBD
  • A lobby day at the Arizona State Capitol in Phoenix: March 18–19, 2025
  • Regular check-ins and mentorship opportunities with GIFFORDS staff
  • A 3-day graduation in Tucson: Date TBD
  • The creation and implementation of a community engagement project with support from GIFFORDS

Applicants should have a demonstrated interest in politics, community organizing, activism, or volunteerism; be willing to learn new skills, have a strong desire to become (or already are) active in the gun violence prevention movement, and be between the ages of 17 and 24.

Questions? Email couragefellows@giffords.org

OUR STORIES

We’re youth activists, survivors, doctors, and gun owners. We’re united in the fight to end gun violence. 

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