We’re excited to share some good news: out of more than 600 applicants, Inner Strength has been accepted to be one of 50 in the 2026 Truist Foundation Fellowship.

The Fellowship, powered by the Watson Institute, is a fully funded leadership cohort. Designed to mentor and support small nonprofits and social impact leaders, the goal is to help organizations like ours expand access and opportunity in under-resourced communities. This couldn’t have come at a better time, as we are focusing on our expansion and will really be able to benefit from the professional input. 
 
The Fellowship brings together a community of nonprofit leaders for leadership development, technical assistance, mentorship, and long-term partnership. What resonated most with us in the program’s mission is the belief that lasting change begins within the hearts and minds of those shaping the future. That’s where our work lives, alongside the young people we learn from every day in Philadelphia classrooms.

This opportunity came through our connection with Theo Arapis, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Chair in the Department of Public Administration at Villanova University, who we’ve had the pleasure of getting to know through our internship program. Theo’s hands-on approach to mentorship and his genuine care for mindfulness in education have been a gift to our community, and we’re deeply grateful for his recommendation and support.

Thank you to the Truist Foundation, faculty at Watson Institute, and all those who made this opportunity possible!