As National Divides Deepen, Local Leaders Center Community and Connection through Change Collective Fellowship

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: press@civicnation.org

 The 2026 Change Collective Cohort Includes A Record Number of Fellows Stepping Up to Address the Country’s Most Pressing Issues at the Local Level

Washington, DC: Today, the Change Collective announced its largest cohort of 124 leaders dedicated to bringing people together, bridging divides and solving problems at the community level. In Chicago, IL; Detroit, MI; Jackson, MS; Memphis, TN; and San Antonio, TX, this diverse group of changemakers will use their expertise as nonprofit leaders, educators, entrepreneurs and more to address their communities’ most critical needs. 

“In a time when our country faces worsening national divides, disconnection and distrust, local leaders are stepping up as a critical part of the solution. The Change Collective was built on the idea that impactful change starts at the local level — led by leaders who know their communities best. I’m thrilled to welcome this historic cohort into our network of more than 200 leaders who continue to build bridges and bring hope, trust and connection to their communities,” said Dexter Mason, Executive Director of the Change Collective.

From community engagement and voter apathy to the literacy gap and resources for LGBTQ+ youth, fellows will launch place-based Civic Action Plans that introduce innovative solutions to some of the biggest challenges facing their communities. 

• Chicago, IL: Kyle Larry is a project manager who will support Black and Brown LGBTQ+ youth during their transition from high school to college.
• Detroit, MI: Nicholas Hill is a program manager who will support the Detroit community in getting the credentials and training they need to access jobs in the construction and skilled trades industry. 
• Jackson, MS: Henry Goss, Jr. is a voting rights advocate who will combat youth voter apathy by connecting personal stories to the issues on the ballot. 
• Memphis, TN: Ashley Hemphill is a social worker who will redefine the connection between public safety and community empowerment.
• San Antonio, TX: Brandi Coleman is an educator and nonprofit leader who will address the literacy gaps that impact Black and Brown girls.

With mentorship as a cornerstone of the Change Collective, 55% of the 2026 cohort received nominations to participate in the program by another member or community partner. Of the 124 fellows, 89% identify as people of color, 66% identify as women and 64% are under the age of 36.

During the six-month leadership program, fellows will attend monthly Local Change Labs focused on unique professional training, leadership development and mentorship opportunities. After completion of the fellowship and successful implementation of their individual Civic Action Plans, fellows will join a robust national network of more than 200 local leaders who remain committed to long-lasting change in their communities and attend the annual National Change Lab. 

Press interested in learning more about the Change Collective and interviewing the incoming class of fellows should contact press@civicnation.org.

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ABOUT the Change Collective: 

The Change Collective is a dynamic leadership community created to train, connect and elevate local changemakers in communities across the country. The Change Collective develops local leaders, helping them bring people together, bridge divides, and solve problems at the community level. Local cohorts are composed of fellows representing a range of identities, backgrounds, vocations, and ideologies. Members of the Change Collective have access to training opportunities, leadership development, and a wide network of mentors both locally and nationally. The Change Collective is an initiative of Civic Nation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Learn more here.

ABOUT Civic Nation:

Civic Nation is an impact hub for ideas, leaders, and initiatives that strengthen civic culture, power, and participation. Rooted in purpose and powered by people, Civic Nation brings together individuals, grassroots organizers, industry leaders, brands, and influencers to take on the biggest issues of our time. Civic Nation is home to five national initiatives: ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, Change Collective, It’s On Us, We The Action, and When We All Vote. Learn more here.