THE JOY & JUSTICE ACADEMY: Advocacy & Organizer Training Program

The Joy and Justice Academy is a powerful new learning experience for GirlTREK members ready to grow their advocacy, strengthen their organizing skills, and lead change in their communities. This FAQ guide will help you understand the program, application process, eligibility, and what to expect from this inaugural cohort.

To learn more, explore the full resources below:

We are grateful to walk, talk, and build a future rooted in care, power, and joy.

JOY AND JUSTICE ACADEMY FAQ’S

Walk. Talk. Solve.

Q: What is the Joy and Justice Academy

A: The Joy and Justice Academy is a 16 week virtual learning experience for GirlTREK members who want to grow their advocacy and organizing skills. Sisters will learn together, build community power, and work on real solutions that support Black women and families.

Q: Who can apply

A: This first cohort is open to GirlTREK members who live in Houston, Chicago, Montgomery, or Newark and have taken the GirlTREK pledge.

Q: Do I need leadership or advocacy experience to apply

A: No. You do not need a formal title or background. If you are already showing up in your community and ready to grow, this space is for you.

Q: What qualities are you looking for

A: We are looking for members who are grounded in GirlTREK values, able to bring people together, and committed to following through. We call this being Radiant, having Rallying Power, and being Reliable.

Q: When does the application open

A: Applications open Thursday October 1 2026.

Q: When is the application deadline

A: The deadline is Friday October 30 2026 at 5 PM ET.

Q: What does the application include

A: The application includes short written responses and a 60 second video where you share your voice and perspective.

Q: When will I hear back about my application

A: You will receive an update by November 9 2026, with final decisions shared after the holiday season.

Q: When does the program take place

A: The Academy runs from February through May 2027.

Q: How long is the program

A: The program is 16 weeks long.

Q: What is the time commitment

A: Participants can expect to spend about 10 hours per month on sessions, learning and project work.

Q: When are sessions held

A: Sessions are held on Tuesdays in the evening from 7 PM to 8:30 PM ET.

Q: What will I learn in the Academy

A: You will learn how to strengthen your voice, build relationships, understand power, and take action on issues affecting your community. This includes storytelling, organizing, and turning ideas into action.

Q: What topics will the Academy focus on

A: The Academy focuses on four priorities

Healthy Bodies
Healthy Families
Economic Freedom
Care for Caregivers

Q: Will I be working with other members

A: Yes. You will be placed in a city based group and work together throughout the program.

Q: Will there be a project

A: Yes. Each group will design and work on a community based project connected to one of the four priority areas.

Q: Is this a paid opportunity

A: No. This is a volunteer leadership and learning experience.

Q: Is there any funding for the project

A: Yes. Each city team will receive a small stipend to support their project work.

Q: Do I have to attend every session

A: Yes. Full participation is expected so that everyone can learn and grow together. If something comes up, the team will support you when possible.

Q: What happens if I miss a session

A: We understand that life happens. Please communicate with the team as early as possible so we can support you.

Q: Do I have to complete the full program

A: Yes. Participants are expected to stay engaged for the full 16 weeks to be considered a graduate.

Q: What happens after I complete the Academy

A: Graduates will continue building leadership in their communities and within GirlTREK. This experience is designed to support long term impact and continued engagement.

Q: What if I do not live in one of the four cities

A: We see you and we are so glad you are interested. This is our first cohort and it is helping us build what comes next. Stay connected for future opportunities and continue leading right where you are.

Q: Can I still participate if my city is not included

A: While you cannot apply for this cohort, you can support by sharing this opportunity with a sister in one of the four cities and staying engaged with the movement.

Q: Where can I review more information before applying

A: You can review the full program overview and FAQs here: Joy and Justice Academy Program Overview & FAQs

Q: Where can I find the sample application

A: You can review the sample application here: Joy and Justice Academy Sample Application

Q: Who can I contact if I have questions

A: You can reach the team anytime at advocacy@girltrek.org

Q: What if I need help submitting my application

A: If you need support or an alternate way to submit your materials, email advocacy@girltrek.org and the team will assist you.

Q: Why is GirlTREK starting with only four cities

A: This first cohort is a pilot. Starting with a smaller group allows us to learn, grow, and build a strong foundation before expanding to more cities.

Q: Will there be more opportunities like this in the future

A: Yes. This is just the beginning. Future cohorts will be shaped by what we learn in this first experience.

Q: How does this connect to GirlTREK’s mission

A: The Academy brings our mission to life by helping Black women walk, talk, and solve problems together while building power in our communities.

Got Questions?

If you have questions or need another way to submit your application, email

advocacy@girltrek.org

Need Additional Support?

Member Resources & Support

Still need help? You can submit a ticket or email us anytime at info@girltrek.org - we’re here for you.

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