Dream.Org Launches Applications for Third Justice Next Cohort in Phoenix
In partnership with the NBA Foundation, the nine-week program will equip 15 justice-impacted young adults ages 18–24 with leadership training, mentorship, and a $1,000 stipend
Oakland, California - July 31st, 2026 - Applications are now open for Dream.Org’s 2026 Justice Next Cohort in Phoenix, AZ. In partnership with the NBA Foundation, this nine week course was built to empower and equip Black and Brown justice-impacted individuals between 18 - 24 years of age with leadership and professional skills for a pathway to economic mobility.
Three years ago, the Justice Next program was built on the belief that everyone deserves equal access to the tools and resources they need to shape a better future - especially young people impacted by systems of injustice and disparity. The program is led by formerly incarcerated professionals and provides professional mentorship, career exploration, civic leadership, and education in emerging technologies like AI so participants leave with far more than a resume.
“For the past three years, the NBA Foundation has recognized what we see every day,” says Sean Wilson, Dream.Org’s Senior Director of Organizing and Partnerships and program leader of Justice Next, of the foundations renewed investment in the third Phoenix Cohort, “when young people are given access to opportunity, trusted mentorship, and meaningful career pathways, they don't just change the trajectory of their own lives, they strengthen their families, workplaces, and entire communities.”
Since launching the inaugural cohorts in Sacramento and Phoenix, the program has engaged more than 90 young adults, who are now a part of Dream.Org’s Empathy Network, with alumni who have gone on to pursue higher education or build careers across healthcare, education, nonprofit leadership, government, entrepreneurship, and much more.
Phoenix based Black and Brown young adults between the ages of 18-24 who have been impacted by the justice system can apply now through August 31st on Dream.Org’s website. 15 individuals will be chosen for the 2026 cohort and to receive the $1,000 stipend, with a program start date of September 26th and a culminating graduation on November 15th.
For more information about the program visit here.
For media inquiries, please contact Sara Stickney at sara.stickney@dream.org.
ABOUT DREAM.ORG
Dream.Org is the leading national nonprofit bringing people together across racial, social, and partisan lines to create a future with freedom, dignity and opportunity for all. We use a common ground approach to find solutions for America’s toughest problems and make the American dream a reality for everyone. Learn more at dream.org.
