Golden LEAF Rural Internship Initiative
Building Careers. Strengthening Rural Communities.
The Golden LEAF Rural Internship Initiative (RII) connects eligible Golden LEAF Scholars with paid, career-connected experiences at businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations in rural North Carolina.
Through these experiences, scholars gain meaningful work experience, explore career opportunities, and build professional connections, while rural host sites benefit from emerging talent and the opportunity to invest in their communities’ future workforce.
Program Impact
Since launching in 2022, RII has created meaningful opportunities for Golden LEAF Scholars and rural communities across North Carolina.
(since 2022)
Kaleb Harrison
2026 RII ParticipantÂ
The Roanoke Rapids Daily Herald
“My internship allowed me to connect with local government officials, nonprofit leaders, business professionals, educators, community members, and other journalists throughout the region. Every interview has helped me become more confident in building professional relationships and has introduced me to people who are making a positive impact in rural North Carolina.”
RII at a Glance
Paid Experiences
Golden LEAF covers scholar intern wages of $16–$18 per hour, at no wage cost to participating host sites.
Career-Connected
Scholars gain meaningful professional experience while host sites benefit from emerging talent and support for their work.
Rural North Carolina
Internships take place in person at eligible businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations in rural North Carolina.
Flexible Opportunities
Exploratory and Immersive Tracks offer different time commitments, allowing scholars and host sites to find an experience that fits their goals and availability.
Ready to Get Involved?
Interested in participating? Explore the opportunities and next steps available to eligible Golden LEAF Scholars and prospective rural host sites.
For Scholars
Explore paid internship opportunities available to eligible Golden LEAF Scholars and learn how to get started.
For Host Sites
Learn how your rural North Carolina organization can host a Golden LEAF Scholar intern and support the next generation of professionals.