Jane’s Fellowship Program Now Accepting Applicants for Class 13

The Russell Family Foundation (TRFF) is inviting residents of Pierce County to apply to join its Class 13 cohort of Jane’s Fellowship Program (JFP). JFP is a leadership initiative celebrating the philanthropic legacy of Jane Russell, one of the Foundation’s founders, who focused her efforts and volunteerism within Pierce County. JFP brings together a group of up to 15 community and grassroots leaders actively serving Pierce County.

JFP is seeking candidates working at the grassroots level, in partnership with others, and improving the quality of life in their community, but may lack access to opportunities or resources to invest in their own leadership potential.

With an unwavering commitment to individuals and local communities, JFP presents a unique opportunity for community members who aspire to lead, serve, and collaborate in pursuit of a shared community vision.

If you’re seeking personal growth, exposure to new tools and resources to amplify your leadership skills within a supportive group and a broader network, TRFF invites you to seize this exclusive opportunity to become a Fellow.

Through JFP, Fellows Will:

• Enhance Leadership Skills: Embrace a wide range of tools and resources that will broaden your perspectives and enable you to become an even more effective leader.
• Expand Networks: Cultivate meaningful connections with other community leaders and tap into a vast network of experts and alumni, all dedicated to improving Pierce County. JFP is not just a program—it’s a community that welcomes and supports you on your leadership journey.
• Encourage Equitable Collaborations: Build your capacity to work across lines of difference and strengthen relationships that reflect the full range of lived experiences in Pierce County. As a participant in JFP, your growth isn’t just personal—it’s about contributing to a stronger, more connected, and responsive community.

This twelve-month program begins in January 2026 and runs through December 2026. Fellows meet twice monthly to share skills training, experiential learning and community building.

Fellows receive thorough training and opportunities to develop a wide array of skills, such as storytelling, mindfulness, and conflict resolution. Those who fulfill the participation requirements will receive a stipend of $8,500 and up to $2,500 in additional support to pursue their leadership development objectives.

Since its establishment in 2004, JFP has supported 144 fellows on their leadership paths, laying a solid foundation for their success.

Who Should Apply?
Applicants must:

• Be at least 24 years old
• Live in Pierce County
• Be actively involved (volunteer or paid) in work that addresses community challenges and improves the quality of life for their community

Applications and letters of support are due September 14, 2025.

To learn more about the program and how to apply, visit our website. You can also get questions answered at one of our JFP Information Sessions. These one-hour sessions include details about what to expect if selected, stories from alumni, and time for Q&A.

Sessions are free and open to all:

• First Info Session (Virtual): Monday, July 21, 2025, 2:00–3:00 p.m.
  Join Zoom Session
• Second Info Session (Virtual): Wednesday, August 13, 2025, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
  Join Zoom Session
• Third Info Session (In-Person): Thursday, September 4, 2025, 6:00–7:30 p.m.
  Location: The Evergreen State College Tacoma Campus
  1210 6th Ave, Tacoma, WA 98405
  Register Here