Get Started

We don’t start with applications or interviews.
We start with a simple interest form.

This helps us understand:

What you’re interested in
What kind of commitment works for you
Whether you’re looking for paid work, credit, or exploration
How to follow up in a way that respects your time

Youth Belong in This Work!

THRIVE ON! works with young people who want to be involved in their communities in real, meaningful ways.

You do not need prior experience.
You do not need to have everything figured out.
You just need curiosity, honesty, and a willingness to show up.

We offer multiple ways to get involved, depending on your life, goals, and availability.

Early Thriver Program

The Early Thriver Program is for you if you want to learn by doing and be part of real community work. You’ll work on actual projects — not simulations — connected to food, community development, and local change. You’ll build leadership skills, get support along the way, and have a real voice in what you’re working on. How you participate can shift based on your interests, schedule, and what you want to grow into.

Paid opportunities

Some opportunities with THRIVE ON! are paid when funding allows. When a role includes pay, it’s because your time, effort, and leadership matter. Not every opportunity is paid, and we’ll always be upfront about that. Our goal is to grow paid pathways whenever possible — especially when you’re taking on real responsibility.

Workforce & skill-building experiences

You’ll gain real skills by working alongside others on meaningful projects. This might include communication, teamwork, leadership, organizing, food systems work, or project coordination. The goal is to help you feel more confident and prepared for what comes next — whether that’s a job, school, or something else. When possible, we also work with partners who are excited to hire Early Thrivers.

Academic credit & placements

If you’re in high school or college, you may be able to earn academic credit while working on real community projects. We partner with schools and universities to make sure your work counts toward your coursework or graduation requirements. These placements can be tied to a class, internship, or independent study. You won’t be left on your own — support and reflection are part of the experience.

Exploratory involvement

If you’re not sure what you want yet, that’s completely okay. Exploratory involvement gives you a low-pressure way to check things out, meet people, and see what feels right. You might join a short-term project, help out at an event, or sit in on a meeting. Curiosity is enough — you don’t need a long-term plan to start.

Ways Youth Get Involved

Youth engagement at THRIVE ON! is flexible and responsive. Opportunities may include:

Get Started