Seattle Martin Luther King Jr Organizing Coalition.

Seattle Martin Luther King Jr Organizing Coalition.

 

Young Leaders Internship Program

 

Are you ready to lead, learn, organize, and make a difference in your community?

The Seattle Martin Luther King Jr. Organizing Coalition is accepting applications for our 2026–2027 Young Leaders Program! This paid leadership opportunity gives high school students the chance to develop new skills, connect with community leaders, and play an active role in planning Seattle's annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration.

Since 1982, the Coalition has brought the community together to honor Dr. King's life and legacy through events including the annual march, rally, workshops, and community activities.

Through the Young Leaders Program, students have the opportunity to work alongside community organizers, contribute their ideas, develop leadership skills, and help shape activities that reflect the voices and priorities of young people.

Two Paid Opportunities Available!

1. Young Leader Interns

Stipend: $500 per participant

We are seeking up to five high school students who are passionate about making a difference and interested in leadership, social justice, and community engagement.

What You'll Do:

  • Help plan and support Seattle's annual MLK celebration.

  • Work alongside community leaders and organizers.

  • Participate in leadership development and civic engagement activities.

  • Build skills in communication, public speaking, event planning, and community organizing.

  • Collaborate with other Young Leaders on a youth-centered capstone project.

  • Bring your ideas and perspectives to Coalition planning conversations.

Who Can Apply?

  • Current high school students.

  • Students interested in social justice, Dr. King's legacy, leadership, and community involvement.

  • Students who can commit approximately 2–5 hours per week, primarily during evenings and weekends.

  • Students who can participate in virtual meetings and key program activities.

No previous leadership experience is required! We welcome students who are ready to learn, grow, and get involved.

Program Dates: November 2026 through February 2027

Stipend Details: $500 total, distributed in two $250 payments based on program participation and completion requirements.

2. Youth Coordinator / Program Lead

Stipend: $1,500

We are also seeking a dedicated and organized individual to help coordinate and support the Young Leaders Program.

The Youth Coordinator / Program Lead will work closely with Coalition leadership to support recruitment, onboarding, communication, scheduling, mentorship coordination, youth activities, and the planning and execution of the Young Leaders' capstone project.

Ideal Candidates Have:

  • Experience working with young people.

  • Strong communication and organizational skills.

  • Experience coordinating programs, activities, or events.

  • The ability to manage schedules, responsibilities, and deadlines.

  • A commitment to youth leadership, community engagement, and culturally responsive programming.

  • An interest in social justice and Dr. King's legacy.

The position requires approximately 50 hours of work throughout the program, including some evenings and weekends.

Important Dates

  • October 7th, 2026: Applications open

  • October 21st, 2026: Application deadline

  • Week of October 26th: Interviews

  • By October 30th: Selection notifications

  • November 3rd, 2026: Virtual orientation

  • January 16th–18th, 2027: MLK celebration weekend and youth capstone activities

How to Apply

Applications for both positions are open through Wednesday, October 21st, 2026.

Complete the online application and select the opportunity you are interested in.

APPLY NOW

Young Leader applicants will be asked about their interests, leadership goals, availability, and community involvement. Prior leadership experience is not required.

Youth Coordinator / Program Lead applicants will be asked about their experience working with youth, coordinating activities, and supporting community-based programs.

Help Us Spread the Word!

Know a young person who would benefit from this experience? Or someone who would make an excellent Youth Coordinator?

We encourage parents, educators, counselors, youth organizations, community partners, and neighbors to share these opportunities.

Help us continue developing the next generation of leaders who will carry forward Dr. King's legacy through service, leadership, and community action.

Questions? Contact mlkseattle@gmail.com.