Catalyst empowers eager high school students to use their voice and time to make a strong impact on our communities. Through social media awareness, volunteerism and voice activation, these teens are truly a Catalyst for change in the lives of our neighbors.
Focusing on food insecurity’s intersection with social issues, Catalysts are encouraged to become advocates for social change as the program fosters commitment in each member to give back to their communities. This program is application-based and spots are limited for each cohort.
Catalyst is a volunteer, educational, and leadership development summer program. Members will participate in weekly group volunteering and on-site lessons relating to Feeding Tampa Bay’s work. Members will also be tasked with sharing their experiences with others via social media, advocating for a hunger-free Tampa Bay alongside our organization.
Successful completion of the program in its entirety guarantees at least 30 volunteer hours and a deeper understanding of food insecurity in the Tampa Bay region. Catalyst’s goal is to create a new generation of advocates in the Tampa Bay area.
*Must be a rising freshman, sophomore, junior or senior by the time of the program
NOTE: Seniors who anticipate graduating before the Catalyst program are not eligible to apply but are encouraged to engage with our Student Ambassador program
*Demonstrate a willingness to volunteer and advocate for Feeding Tampa Bay
*Have an interest in learning more about non-profits, food insecurity, and social change
*Must be able to commit to the entirety of the program, with an allotted 2 absences for emergencies and unforeseen circumstances
* Attend all Monday, Wednesday, and Friday meetings/volunteer shifts
* Volunteer independently an additional 3 times throughout the program
* Post Feeding Tampa Bay advocacy on social media at least 6 times
* Research and present on social issue of your choice on final meeting date
There will be two cohorts of Catalysts in 2026.
Cohort 1: June 1st-June 26th
Cohort 2: July 6th-July 31st
We will meet every Monday/Friday, 10:00am-12:00pm & Wednesday, 9:00am-12:30pm, with one offsite visit to the TampaWell Community Gardens.
Applications open March 9th, 2026 and will close May 1st, 2026. Click the Apply Now button below to submit your application. Acceptance emails will be sent out by mid-May.
Two, four-week-long cohorts, each with approximately 25-30 participants
Several meetings a week for volunteering, educational lessons, and guest speakers
Lesson topics include: an overview of Feeding Tampa Bay’s programs, impacts of food insecurity, policy & advocacy, and nutrition
The opportunity to volunteer a day at our partner TampaWell’s Community Garden
If you have any questions please contact Leana at lfraifer@ftb.org
