Summer Internship Program

Oakland Leaf coordinated an intensive summer internship program for 20 high school-aged youth from June 7th to June 25th. The internship combined daily virtual trainings, discussions, and project-based learning opportunities with in-person outdoor education opportunities. Training topics included financial and media literacy, self-care, and research skills. Guest speakers also presented on diverse social justice issues affecting our local community.

Leveraging their new skills and learnings, interns developed and carried out community impact projects of their own choosing. Students delved into racial justice, gender justice, mental health, food justice, and LGBTQ rights, among other issues. They conducted online research, surveyed community members, and interviewed nonprofits and activist groups about available support, solutions, and opportunities to get involved in making change. Compiling what they learned, students created resource guides, infographics, and other community education materials that they shared online and in their communities.

The outdoor education component of the internship included hands-on experience growing and harvesting produce at the Castlemont Farm and Gardens in East Oakland.

The summer program was designed as an introduction and orientation to our Roots and LCS internship programs, and all youth participants will be considered priority applicants for our internship programs this coming school year.