Youth Intern Capstone Projects: How Fresno’s Next Generation is Building a Healthier, Stronger Future

Over the past few months, our youth interns have been busy developing capstone projects that address some of the most pressing issues facing our region. From housing to healthcare to transportation and environmental justice, they are learning the fundamentals of policy, advocacy, and community engagement.

Through workshops, meeting with local leaders, and turning their research into action plans, our interns are using real community input to propose solutions to key issues across Fresno County.

Here’s what they have been working on.

Parks and Green Space Equity

This project compared park access between North Clovis and South Fresno, and the difference was staggering. In South Fresno, many families must drive 15-30 minutes to reach a park, while in Clovis, most residents are within 10 minutes of one.

The interns are advocating for more Measure P funding in underserved neighborhoods, asking where park dollars are being spent, and encouraging residents to write letters and speak at City Council meetings. Their goal is to make sure every child grows up near clean, safe green space.

Youth Civic Engagement

This project explored ways to increase youth involvement in civic life, from volunteering at community events to participating in local campaigns. Through their work, they discovered that young people want to get involved but often don’t know where to start.

With this project, the interns are working to create on-ramps for youth leadership, reminding their peers that youth energy and imagination are exactly what Fresno needs to succeed now and into the future.