FAO Schwarz Fellowship in Social Impact

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be college seniors at accredited four-year institutions at the time of application and be eligible to work in the United States for the duration of the Fellowship.

Description: Each year a new cohort of FAO Schwarz Fellows begins paid, two-year assignments with leading nonprofit organizations.

FAO Schwarz Fellows work at high-impact nonprofit organizations in Boston, New York City, and Philadelphia. These organizations are all deeply valued in their communities and have a strong record of delivering consistent results and high-quality services. Host organizations vary from year to year—and all have a proven commitment to addressing critical issues of social inequity.

Fellows deepen their knowledge and understanding of relevant social issues, work directly with host communities, and lead strategic projects that strengthen the host organization’s capacity and impact.

The FAO Schwarz Fellowship is committed to investing in the professional development of our Fellows through a structured program of retreats, professional trainings, and mentoring.

After two years, Fellows are well prepared for successful careers in the social impact sector.

Program Preferences: FAO Schwarz Fellows have always been highly motivated and passionate recent college graduates who are committed to social change and social justice leadership. Successful candidates have demonstrated leadership in their college communities and have a proven record of academic success. They seek to immerse themselves in an experience that will challenge them, train them and empower them to lead in social impact careers.

Award Amount: Fellows who start their Fellowship during the summer of 2025 will receive total compensation of approximately $105,000 (Boston & New York) or $95,000 (Philadelphia) plus benefits over the two-year Fellowship.

Due to the differences in the cost of living, the salaries for Boston and New York City-based Fellows are slightly higher than those of Philadelphia Fellows. 

• Year one: $50,000 (Boston & New York City), $45,000 (Philadelphia) (both include $2,000 start of Fellowship bonus)
• Year two: $55,000 (Boston & New York City) , $50,000 (Philadelphia) (both include $3,000 end of Fellowship bonus)
• Entry-level employee benefits at their host organization
• Professional development & leadership training