Leadership Development—Capitol Fellowship Program
The CLLARO Capitol Fellowship Program provides public policy training to college students--typically the first in their families to attend college--and places them in paid internships with state legislators and other public officials and policy advocates during the Colorado legislative session.
CLLARO's Capitol Fellowship Program is developing a new generation of civic leaders.
"I am proud and grateful to say that I finished my second year of studies here (at Harvard Medical School). I plan on specializing in Family Medicine and will return to Colorado to work in primary care with under-served and Latino communities. As a CLLARO Capitol Fellow, I learned the importance of using one's position of leadership and privilege to positively impact the community, and I plan to do so as a future physician. My time with CLLARO taught me many lessons, connected me to my community and to amazing mentors, opened many doors to opportunities, and was truly invaluable. My experiences working with CLLARO highlighted the importance of Latino leadership and community service. They helped me solidify my decision to pursue a career in medicine. CFP was tremendously influential on my career path and development. I sincerely hope that you can support this organization, so that they can continue their valuable work to support the development of our Latino youth, our future leaders, and our community." - Daniel, Capitol Fellowship Program
CLLARO's Capitol Fellowship Program (CFP) offers a unique public policy career training program and paid internships for 12-20 college-aged students with legislators, advocates, and public sector leaders. Fellows gain experience and knowledge applicable and valuable in all three sectors. Fellows learn the legislative process, community engagement, building trust with elected officials and others. Their lives have changed as their career options are broadened in unimaginable ways.
Fellows are first generation college students more often than not. Most come from low-income families. The program increases labor force opportunities for the next generation. Fellows learn how public policy is made; a skill set useful in all three sectors of the economy.
In 12 years, 162 alumni changed their lives and learned new skills essential to private, nonprofit and government careers. The alumni network provides career support and additional learning opportunities.
Recruitment for 2026 begins in the summer of 2025. CLLARO recruits from more than 12 colleges and universities in Colorado. To learn more about the application process, the program timeline and other details contact Alejandra Colmenero alejandra.colmenero@cllaro.org
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