The Helpers Cohort
Coaching | Connecting | Training

This program is for individuals. For organizations, complete our Community Partner Interest Form.

Application Information Below

The Helpers Cohort offers mentorship, networking, and skill-building opportunities to “politically homeless” activists in Ohio. This cohort will help experienced activists find their next pet project and help newer activists learn how their strengths can make a difference in the fight against extremism.

The Helpers Cohort is a free program with limited space. Submit your application by March 2, 2026 to be considered in time for the March 24 orientation*. 

*Cohort applicants will be screened and on-boarded every two months. If you miss the March 2 deadline, submit your application to be first in line for the next round of screenings in May.


Frequently Asked Questions

The cohort is open to everyone, but the ideal candidate is someone passionate about curbing extremism in Ohio and not yet working closely with an organization. Whether you’re a veteran organizer with extra time on your hands, an impacted community member ready to step into leadership, or a working professional trying to figure out how to put your skillset to good use in the battle against extremism, this cohort could be a perfect fit for you.

Folks already working with an organization but intrigued by the opportunity for growth are encouraged to instead look into our Community Partner Network to work with us all year.

With bi-monthly collaboration sessions, specialized working groups, and exclusive networking and involvement opportunities, the cohort serves as a launching pad for organizers that are ready to get to work but lacking the support network to move to the next level.

Mentorship & Coaching

Cohort members receive personalized attention and support from the Ohioans Against Extremism team. The team serves as a guide and sounding board as you develop your ideas and weigh options, so you can take bold action confidently.

Training & Education

Cohort members receive exclusive training and educational opportunities. Opportunities include briefings from topic experts, strategic guidance from respected practitioners, and a supportive environment to develop your own strengths and strategies.

Network-building opportunities

Cohort members will be invited to join some community partner network activities, which will give members opportunities to build relationships with some of the most respected and active anti-extremist leaders in Ohio.

Your undivided attention and effort

This is not a program for the passive observers or those “just listening in”. This cohort is for those ready to engage in active collaborations. Even if you are only able to join us for a few hours per month, give us your full attention and effort while we have you.

No minimum number of hours or length of involvement

While we hope that each cohort member can give at least a few hours a month to cohort work, there are no minimum hours expected of cohort members. Each member’s experience will be shaped by that member’s preferences and schedule. But when you’re working on cohort projects, we expect you to be focused on the work and to follow through on commitments.

Consider the cohort is a pitstop, not a destination

The cohort is meant to be your temporary pit stop. We are here to offer skill-building opportunities and a supportive network that help you discover and grow into your longer-term advocacy home. We’re sure we will be instant forever friends, but we expect you to ditch the cohort when you’re ready. We won’t take it personally, promise.

This is a free program with limited space. Each applicant must complete and submit the application below and schedule a one-on-one screening with a member of Ohioans Against Extremism’s team.

Beginning in March 2026, cohort members are screened and on-boarded once every two months. That means that if you miss the March deadline, we encourage you to apply anyway, and you’ll be first in line for the next round of screenings.

March 2026 On-boarding Timeline

Submit your application by March 2 to be considered in time for the March 24 orientation*. 

*Cohort applicants will be screened and on-boarded every two months thereafter. If you miss the March 2 deadline, submit your application to be first in line for the next round of screenings in May. 

  • February 20, 2026: March application opens
  • February 23 – March 7, 2026: First round of screening interviews
  • March 2, 2026 @ 11:59pm: Deadline to apply in time to attend the March meet-up in Columbus
  • March 24, 2026 @ 10am – 12pm: First Cohort meet-up (virtual option available). The presentation portion will be recorded and available for cohort members unable to attend.


Application for the Helpers Cohort

To Apply:
  1. Complete and submit the application form below.
  2. Email your resume or CV to Info@OHagainstextremism.org with the subject line, “Helpers Cohort”.
    • Cover letters are not required, but if you submit one, we promise to actually read it.

Applications will be considered incomplete until both steps 1 and 2 are completed.

After Submission:

Applicants are considered in order of submission (no line skipping!) You will receive a response from Ohioans Against Extremism with your preliminary determination:

  • You made it to the screening round: instructions for scheduling your screening interview.
  • You have been placed on the wait list: if the cohort is full, you will be placed on hold until space opens up.
  • You did not make it to the screening round at this time: a brief rationale for the decision.


Now is your chance to be a part of the fight against extremism in Ohio. We hope you’ll join us in building a better future for Ohio.