We're excited to announce the transition of the Serve Philadelphia VISTA Corps program to the Philadelphia Public Service Fellowship in September 2026. This new, nine-month fellowship will cultivate pathways to public service through equity-driven initiatives that strengthen economic resilience for all Philadelphians.

The first application cycle will open in May 2026 and kick-off with a launch party and information session. The fellowship will start on September 8, 2026, and will end on May 28, 2027.

The fellowship will provide a testing ground for new economic mobility initiatives and develop a new generation of public servants. Fellows will serve in City departments and increase department capacity for City initiatives that address the root causes of poverty and increase access to economic mobility for all Philadelphians.

Fellowship projects: categories and focus areas

Fellows will support their projects through a specific set of goals and activities that align with one of the following fellowship categories:

• Outreach & Engagement Fellow
• Program Coordination Fellow
• Partnership & Resource Development Fellow
• Research & Analysis Fellow

Projects will fall into these focus areas:

• Data & Systems for Equity
• Education Access & Readiness
• Healthy Communities

Read more about the fellowship categories.

Who can apply

To apply to the fellowship, you must:

• Be 21 years of age or older.
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent GED.
• Be able to pass a background check, if selected.

Compensation and member benefits

Fellows will receive the following compensation and member benefits:

• $20/hour, 30 hours a week for a total stipend of $22,800
• $4,000 completion award
• Up to $250 per fellow for additional professional development
• Deep dive learning seminars with subject matter experts
• Dedicated supervisor in a host department

We're continuing to develop member benefits and will share updates through our interest list.