OUR PROGRAM

ABOUT US

We are a Portland based youth leadership organization that primarily serves low-income, BIPOC high school students, creating access to opportunities that are often out of reach. Through fully scholarship-based programming, we center art, nature based learning, travel, and community service as tools for personal and collective growth. Our students step outside their comfort zones (locally and globally) to gain new perspectives, build leadership skills, and discover their strengths.

In addition, we support students in exploring future pathways through workforce development, advocacy, and paid internship opportunities that prepare them for life beyond high school. At the heart of Wonderfolk is a commitment to equity, belonging, and the belief that young people deserve access to transformative opportunities that empower them to shape their communities.

OUR PROGRAM TIMELINE

  • The program begins in March with regular meetings and community projects through June.

  • Global Leadership trip to Costa Rica! 2 weeks either in June or July.

  • Local projects continue!

  • Transition period between 1st and 2nd year curriculum.

  • Students build self-awareness, strengthen financial literacy, and develop practical workplace skills.

  • Through interviews, industry tours, and projects, students build professional skills to prepare for internships.

  • Students start paid internships with peer support, and reflection to solidify workforce readiness.

  • Stay involved as an alum!

Unity Through Arts

Art captures the soul of the times and amplifies both individual and collective voices. Through community-led public art projects, Fellows explore their creativity by creating murals, producing their own visual yearbook, and engaging in art as a tool for healing. Their work becomes a shared expression of power, perspective, and community.

Our Naturehood

A strong relationship with the natural world and access to clean air, clean water, and green spaces is essential for all communities. Through trail maintenance, wildlife exploration in Costa Rica, and local environmental advocacy, Fellows build meaningful connections to nature. Locally, students learn about the vital role of bees and the importance of protecting natural spaces. Centering equitable access, we affirm a simple truth: nature belongs to all of us.

Global Leadership

A global perspective opens new ways of seeing, learning, and leading. By collaborating with local leaders abroad on education, infrastructure, and conservation projects, Fellows deepen their understanding of global community and shared responsibility. In tandem with Global Works Travel, our youth participate in a service-learning trip to Costa Rica allowing youth to apply their advocacy skills while building meaningful relationships through homestays and partner led projects.

FAQs

How often are mentor meet ups?

Mentor meet ups begin in March through June and will happen 1-3 times a month.

Where will the meetings take place?

Our meetings are all around the Portland Metro area.

What if I don’t have my passport yet?

This program is a full scholarship program therefore, Wonderfolk will support you in getting a passport should you have all the necessary documents needed.

Does Wonderfolk provide transportation to get to the meet ups?

Yes, We find creative ways to get you to and from our programming.

Where can I find the application?

www.wonderfolk.org/apply

Do I need to pay for the trip abroad?

Our fellowship covers the cost of travel!

What is the application process? 

The application includes a few short essay questions and 2 letters of recommendation (one from a parent and one from a teacher, mentor, counselor, etc.)

The Application process includes the application (see above) and a potential interview.