Just as important as financial assistance are the extensive support services that JRF Scholars receive throughout their college careers. JRF equips Scholars with a comprehensive set of support services, including curriculum guidance, career mentoring, internship placement, and a host of practical life skills and leadership
training to help them succeed both academically and in life.
JRF provides year-round webinars and on-site workshops that develop effective study habits, practical life skills, strong character traits, and leadership. JRF Scholars are afforded opportunities to practice and hone these skills through networking, participating in public events, engagement in national and local media, and other ambassadorial platforms facilitated by JRF.
JRF believes in providing mentorship opportunities to meet the individual needs of Scholars as they navigate college, face challenges, and prepare for opportunities post-graduation. JRF staff, volunteer Scholar Advisory Committee (SAC) members, corporate and university partners, community leaders and JRF Alumni provide mentoring to JRF Scholars on an individualized, year-round basis.
JRF sponsors and institutional partners offer valuable career opportunities to JRF Scholars, providing internships, permanent employment, and exposure to a rich network of professionals. JRF staff work on a customized basis with corporations, community leaders, government agencies, and other employers to identify “good fit” job opportunities and prepare Scholars to become leaders in a global economy.
JRF Scholars are required to perform community service work throughout their JRF experience. Scholars must document the specifics of their service work and keep all accounts on file with JRF staff. Through these efforts, JRF Scholars gain practical skills and self-confidence and, in turn, impact the lives of thousands who benefit each year from the vast number of projects and work undertaken.
The Rachel Robinson International Fellowship (RRIF) Program was established in 2008 with a generous grant from the Sheila C. Johnson Foundation to support international service and study opportunities for JRF Scholars. RRIF participants may use the grant for a variety of initiatives, such as a study abroad program, philanthropic efforts, or in conjunction with an approved internship abroad.
The Extra Innings Fellowship (EIF) Program was conceived of and funded by a generous endowed gift from The Windmill Foundation to help highly motivated JRF Scholars fund the cost of advanced professional or graduate training. EIF promotes the study of a broad range of topics and disciplines that address communities in need both across the country and around the world.