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Next-Gen City Leaders Wanted for Long Beach Public Service Corps
By Staff Writer
Published on Wed, Apr 15, 2026
Long Beach’s Public Service Corps is once again rolling out the welcome mat for ambitious young residents eager to make their mark as future civic leaders.
Applications are open now through June 9 for the program’s fourth cohort.
Aimed at people ages 18 to 30, the initiative offers a rare behind-the-scenes pass into how city government really works. Selected participants won’t just observe—they’ll jump straight into meaningful projects across various departments, contributing to the ideas and efforts shaping Long Beach’s future.
Fellows gain hands-on experience in everything from budgeting and policy development to sustainability and community engagement. Along the way, they’ll attend council meetings, connect with mentors and build a network of peers equally passionate about public service.
About 30 spots are up for grabs this year, with priority given to students nearing graduation at Cal State Long Beach and Cal State Dominguez Hills, especially those who’ve faced challenges entering the workforce. It’s a competitive process, but one designed to open doors wider for those who need it most.
Importantly, the program recognizes that passion alone doesn’t pay the bills. Participants earn $23 an hour, with the opportunity to work up to 800 hours. Additional support—such as help with transportation or professional attire—aims to remove barriers so fellows can focus on learning and contributing.
The program has already guided multiple cohorts of young people into public service pathways and is coordinated through the Department of Economic Development & Opportunity’s Long Beach Workforce Innovation Network Youth Career Services Center. Backed by millions in state funding and local investment, the initiative is part of a broader push to connect young people with meaningful work that benefits the entire community.
