Not only have I been given the resources to grow professionally, through the seminars, I was able to pursue my passion of connecting wit my community and be civically engaged.
Melanie T., Student
Transforming Lives
The Expanding Horizons Institute (EHI) program begins with interactive seminars and concludes with a paid summer internship at a prestigious law firm, corporation, government agency, or non-profit organization.
An Exciting Opportunity for High School Juniors and Sophomores!
Since 1995, Expanding Horizons Institute (EHI) has provided intensive skill development and personal growth experiences to first-generation, college-bound high school students. Our unique approach, which includes interactive seminars and paid summer internship, is designed to prepare students for the challenges of college, exposure to careers, and the responsibilities of civic life.
To participate, you must meet the following criteria:
- Neither parent graduated from a four-year college
- Currently a sophomore or junior attending a Title I high school in Los Angeles County
- Available from June 15 to July 27 for seminars and internship. (Complete list of dates.)
- Eligible to work in the United States
Key Dates for 2026:
- Application deadline is February 28.
- First round of interviews is March 5 & 6.
- The second round of interviews will be at job sites in April.
- The seminars and internship dates are from June 15 to July 27 (Complete list of dates.)
If you are ready to take the next step in your academic and professional journey, we encourage you to apply to the 2026 Expanding Horizons Institute (EHI). The deadline to apply is February 28:
Step 1: Complete and submit the online Application Part I.
Step 2: Complete Application Part II and email it to Sean-Michael@teachdemocracy.org.
Step 3: Complete the Parent/Legal Guardian Agreement Form (Spanish form) and email it to Sean-Michael@teachdemocracy.org.
Your Sponsorship Will Create a Lasting Impact
EHI empowers highly qualified, first-generation college-bound students to embark on their journey toward success in college, careers, and civic engagement. Our EHI students are extraordinary and brimming with potential; unfortunately, they have had limited access to professional opportunities and resources in their underserved communities.
The program equips students with essential professional skills, fosters critical thinking, and boosts their confidence. This unique program delivers over 40+ hours of engaging seminars designed specifically for high school students and paid internship. Participants will benefit from:
- Exposure to various professional career paths.
- Expert guidance and support for the college application process and SAT preparation.
- Opportunities to discover and engage in civic activities.
- Networking opportunities with successful professionals and industry leaders.
By supporting these students, you enhance their academic journey and prepare them to enter the workforce eager and ready to make valuable contributions. You will be open doors and transform lives.
How does it work?
Each $5,000 sponsorship provides one student with over a paid internship and 18+ hours of engaging seminars centered on professionalism, college preparation, and civic engagement. The institute starts on June 15, the paid internship is from June 15 to July 27 (complete list of dates) and can take place at your company or, if you prefer, at a partnering non-profit organization.
Your sponsorship covers the student’s wages, insurance, workers’ compensation, and transportation stipends for seminars and supports the program’s overall management, materials, and staffing costs.
The dedicated Teach Democracy staff ensures a seamless experience by:
- Recruiting motivated candidates
- Collecting and reviewing applications
- Conducting initial interviews to screen candidates
- Organizing second-round interviews at hosting sites
- Preparing students for their upcoming internships
- Handling necessary paperwork (W-4 form, I-9 form, student work permit, etc.)
- Collecting timesheets and managing payroll (as Teach Democracy employs the interns)
Your sponsorship is a simple way to offer a unique and impactful opportunity that makes a difference in a young person’s life. Join this unique sponsorship opportunity and partner with Teach Democracy to genuinely change lives and shape the future.
