Youth Action Institute

The Youth Action Institute is a paid public policy research fellowship run by the Center for Justice Innovation for New York City young people ages 16 to 21. Fellows study issues that shape young people's safety and agency, especially where those issues meet public safety and the legal system, and turn their research into policy recommendations. The 2025-2026 cohort continued earlier work on the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth growing up in New York City. The fellowship runs for one academic year at about 5 hours a week. The 2025-2026 cohort began on September 30, 2025. Fellows met every Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30 pm and had a weekly one-on-one check-in with staff. Fellows were paid $15 per hour for up to 5 hours per week.

Applicants must be between 16 and 21, live in New York City, and have attended at least one year of elementary, middle, or high school in the city. No prior work experience is needed. Fellows must attend all meetings. Applicants submit a written application and a recommendation, then take part in group and individual interviews. The 2025-2026 application deadline was September 7, 2025.