Applications are now open for the 2025 IREX Community Solutions Program. This program is a year-long professional development opportunity designed for established community leaders who are committed to making a difference by addressing crucial issues such as democracy and human rights, environmental sustainability, peacebuilding, and women’s empowerment. As part of this global exchange program, fellows gain valuable experience through a four-month hands-on practicum in the U.S., supported by their U.S. host organization. They also receive personalized leadership coaching through a graduate-level curriculum to refine their skills and strategies for effective community work. After returning to their home country, fellows implement a six-month follow-on community project, using the insights and tools they developed during the fellowship.
The Community Solutions Program empowers youth leadership and supports community-driven change by enhancing the skills of participants through capacity building for social enterprises and networking opportunities with U.S. nonprofits. Fellows also receive support, including J-1 visa sponsorship, round-trip travel, a monthly allowance to cover living expenses, and health coverage. Additionally, the program offers accessibility accommodations, ensuring equal participation for all fellows.
Community-based initiatives: During their time in the U.S., Community Solutions fellows work with their host organization to design and plan a community development initiative or project that they will implement upon their return home. After completing the U.S. practicum, fellows apply their skills in their local communities to drive meaningful social change.
Name of Host Institution IREX
Requirements/ Eligibility criteria To be eligible for the IREX Community Solutions Program 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications that do not fulfill these conditions will be disqualified and will not be reviewed by the selection committee.
You are between the ages of 26 and 39 as of November 13, 2024.
You are living and working in your home country.
Individuals with refugee status working on behalf of their home community may receive special consideration.
You have at least two years of experience working on community development projects, whether as a full-time or part-time employee or volunteer.
You are not currently participating in an academic, training, or research program in the U.S.
You have a high level of proficiency in spoken and written English at the time of application.
Semifinalists must take and pass or submit recent scores for a TOEFL or IELTS English language test.
You are available to travel to the U.S. for four months from August to December 2025.
You are not a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. and have not applied for U.S. permanent residency within the past three years.
You are eligible to receive a U.S. J-1 visa.
Applicants who have participated in an exchange program sponsored by the U.S. Government must have fulfilled their two-year home residency requirement.
You are committed to returning to your home country for a minimum of two years after completing the program.
You are not a current IREX employee or consultant, or their immediate family member.
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