The Opportunity Youth Congressional Liaison Program (OYCL) is a three-month paid fellowship that equips U.S. youth ages 16 to 26 with the skills and tools they need to directly advocate to lawmakers. The program was designed with and for Opportunity Youth (16- to 26-year-olds who are not connected to school or the workforce) in order to level up their advocacy skills and connect them to others working for more equitable access to opportunity.

The application for the next cohort is open and will close November 16, 2025!

Want to learn more?

Watch the recording of our most recent info session to learn more about program details, eligibility, application tips, and what to expect throughout the fellowship. (Recorded October 2025.)

Questions?

For more information, contact Gerod Blue, the Forum’s Director of Federal Policy & Advocacy, who directs the program.

To receive updates about this and future opportunities, sign up for the Forum’s monthly newsletter.

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All young people reach their fullest potential - in education, work, and life.

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