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Building the Next Generation of Leaders with ‘B’ BOLD & ‘B’ BOLD(ER)

‘B’ BOLD and ‘B’ BOLD(ER) are paid internship programs that give students real-world exposure, professional mentorship, and a pathway into careers that shape communities and institutions.

Apply Now Learn About Eligibility

SUMMER 2026

Both program application windows are now closed.

A Decade of Bold Moves

For more than a decade, ‘B’ BOLD and ‘B’ BOLD(ER) have helped students turn potential into opportunity by pairing hands-on experience with professional guidance and long-term support.

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Two Programs,
One Mission

Each program is designed to meet students where they are, providing the tools, confidence, and experience needed to take the next step forward.

‘B’ BOLD Internship

For High School Students—An entry point into professional environments for students ready to explore career pathways and build foundational skills.

Check Your Eligibility Process Overview

‘B’ BOLD(ER) Internship

For College Students—An immersive experience for individuals ready to explore community development and build leadership skills.

Check Your Eligibility Process Overview

Reaching Students Across Communities

‘B’ BOLD and ‘B’ BOLD(ER) connect students to professional experience in communities across the country. So far, more than 60 interns have participated across California, Arizona, Washington, Idaho, and Florida.

Want to see the program in your area?

See How to Apply

Looking Back

10 Years of Milestones

2016

Program Launch

The ‘B’ BOLD program is established to provide 2 high school students with early exposure to professional environments and mentorship.

2020

Program Adapts

The pandemic-driven transition to remote programming for nearly two years showed that ‘B’ BOLD could thrive both virtually and in person, significantly broadening its potential intern pool.

2022

Program Expansion

The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) program launches for college students with additional workshops, professional development, and expands into states across the country.

2026

10-Year Celebration

A decade of student achievement, growth, and community connection is recognized and celebrated. Both programs have successfully graduated over 60 interns, all from low-income households, and now spans across three time-zones.

Voices from Our Network

My time at the ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship was one of a kind. It was my first ever internship, and I don’t think any other internship could have given me an experience as wonderful as this one.
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Valerie Noyola
2026 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“My time at the ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship was one of a kind. It was my first ever internship, and I don’t think any other internship could have given me an experience as wonderful as this one. I am still a rather shy person, but thanks to ‘B’ BOLD(ER), I have grown a bit bolder. Get it?”

Valerie Noyola
2026 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Voices from Our Network

Through my ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship, I gained valuable skills and made meaningful connects while navigating a professional environment.
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Natalie Ocampo
2026 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“Through my ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship, I gained valuable skills and made meaningful connects while navigating a professional environment. From the financial literacy workshops, I gained the knowledge and motivation to open my first credit card and CD account. Thank you Clearinghouse CDFI for providing such an incredible program for students.”

Natalie Ocampo
2026 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Voices from Our Network

Who would have thought that a creative girl like me would find herself not only interning at a bank, but also find joy in learning the intricacies of credit, homebuying, and overall financial wellness? This internship has provided me with power through knowledge and connections that feel real.”
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Myah Charlton
2026 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“Who would have thought that a creative girl like me would find herself not only interning at a bank, but also find joy in learning the intricacies of credit, homebuying, and overall financial wellness? This internship has provided me with power through knowledge and connections that feel real.”

Myah Charlton
2026 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Voices from Our Network

B BOLD(ER) is the absolute best internship program because it helps prepare future leaders in community development.
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Victor Ramirez
Beneficial State Bank

“B BOLD(ER) is the absolute best internship program because it helps prepare future leaders in community development. The program exposes students to the many career opportunities within community development in a unique, engaging and structured program that makes a lasting impact on the interns. I’m proud to be mentoring my fifth intern at this time. Go BOLD(ER)!”

Victor Ramirez
Beneficial State Bank

Voices from Our Network

Being part of the ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship has been life changing. I’ve learned things about myself which have served as a catalyst for change.
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Jorge Montoya
2026 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“Being part of the ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship has been life changing. I’ve learned things about myself which have served as a catalyst for change. This internship has challenged me in ways that help me grow and has taught me the meaning of not being afraid to take the lead and speak up first. The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship is a program where you get to be connected with so many intelligent individuals who serve as a mentor to create change in your life and teach you new skills! A big thanks to Clearinghouse CDFI for this wonderful experience!”

Jorge Montoya
2026 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Voices from Our Network

The program offered an invaluable experience, from the weekly sessions with inspiring guest speakers to the opportunity to network with professionals across various departments at Clearinghouse CDFI.
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Amanda Chieng
2026 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“I am incredibly grateful to have been part of the ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Spring 2026 internship cohort. The program offered an invaluable experience, from the weekly sessions with inspiring guest speakers to the opportunity to network with professionals across various departments at Clearinghouse CDFI. While I only understood the basics of CDFIs coming into the program, I’m leaving with a comprehensive understanding of the industry and its impact. It has been a truly rewarding journey.”

Amanda Chieng
2026 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Voices from Our Network

I’m grateful to be in a position where our nonprofit can offer a future UC Berkeley student, an opportunity to explore an experience with Affordable Housing Clearinghouse and gain useful, practical knowledge about operations and how we serve the affordable homeownership needs of our community.
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Brenda J. Rodriguez
Executive Director, Affordable Housing Clearinghouse

“As a young adult, I thought internships were for medical students who aspired to become doctors. Today I’m grateful to be in a position where our nonprofit can offer a future UC Berkeley student, an opportunity to explore an experience with Affordable Housing Clearinghouse and gain useful, practical knowledge about operations and how we serve the affordable homeownership needs of our community. Coaching the intern allows our team to better understand a unique generation and how they view different uses of technology and social media. We are a proud partner of the B BOLD(ER) Internship Program!”

Brenda J. Rodriguez
Executive Director, Affordable Housing Clearinghouse

Voices from Our Network

Citizens Business Bank is proud to have a relationship with Clearinghouse CDFI that exemplifies how banks and community-focused organizations can provide mutually beneficial community impact through working together.
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Citizen’s Business Bank
‘B’ BOLD(ER) Founding Partner

“Citizens Business Bank is proud to have a relationship with Clearinghouse CDFI that exemplifies how banks and community-focused organizations can provide mutually beneficial community impact through working together. Hosting an intern as part of the ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Program has allowed the bank to promote and advance an interest in banking careers that specifically emphasizes reinvestment in our communities.”

Citizen’s Business Bank
‘B’ BOLD(ER) Founding Partner

Voices from Our Network

We had the opportunity to work with a local college bound intern and gained as much from her as she did from us. The collaborative efforts were truly a benefit to our company as well as the experience she gained.
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Foothills Bank
‘B’ BOLD(ER) Supporting Partner

“Foothills Bank has been rewarded this year to partner with Clearinghouse CDFI and the ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship program. We had the opportunity to work with a local college bound intern and gained as much from her as she did from us. The collaborative efforts were truly a benefit to our company as well as the experience she gained. We look forward to our continued partnership with Clearinghouse CDFI and its B BOLD(ER) program.”

Foothills Bank
‘B’ BOLD(ER) Supporting Partner

Voices from Our Network

The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship now serves as a steppingstone not only for my professional career but also the foundation of my life.
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Katie Nguyen
2023 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship now serves as a steppingstone not only for my professional career but also the foundation of my life. I had the opportunity to grow as a leader and as an individual. I learned so much about what it takes to be a compassionate leader, be financially successful, and be professionally ready for any challenge. I believe that there will be many hurdles to overcome in the future and being well-prepared through this internship eases the worry off my shoulders. It truly is a one-of-a-kind experience and should not be taken for granted.”

Katie Nguyen
2023 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Voices from Our Network

I am grateful to have been part of the ‘B’BOLD(ER) internship program. I have learned and gained skills that will allow me to navigate in the real world.
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Leslie Cerano
2024 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“I am grateful to have been part of the ‘B’BOLD(ER) internship program. I have learned and gained skills that will allow me to navigate in the real world. I feel more confident in myself thanks to the workshops and on-site experience. I have grown so much since my first day. Learning about financial literacy has impacted me in great ways. I now have the tools and resources to gain financial stability and freedom. This program has opened so many opportunities for me and made a positive impact in my life and career. Thank you to everyone on the team for giving me such a positive learning experience!”

Leslie Cerano
2024 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Voices from Our Network

Luther Burbank Savings is honored to partner with Clearinghouse CDFI and their ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship program as an advocate and supporter of our younger generations.
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Luther Burbank
‘B’ BOLD(ER) Supporting Partner

“Luther Burbank Savings is honored to partner with Clearinghouse CDFI and their ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship program as an advocate and supporter of our younger generations. Like Clearinghouse CDFI, we believe providing young people access to leaders in the business community and exposure to professional settings provides them the guidance and education needed to enjoy a financially secure and fulfilling future. We look forward to continued collaboration and meaningful dialogue to support and empower tomorrow’s leaders.”

Luther Burbank
‘B’ BOLD(ER) Supporting Partner

Voices from Our Network

It is, to me, the greatest gift college students can receive. It puts them firmly in the middle of the path and on the way to a great career.
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Melody Winter Head
Former ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Advisor & Community Development Leader

“I can remember many years back being new to the business community. I had no idea how much I had to learn about office protocol…I had to learn by trial and error. Today, through Clearinghouse CDFI, determined and hard-working college students have an opportunity to apply for the CCDFI Internship program. It is, to me, the greatest gift college students can receive. It puts them firmly in the middle of the path and on the way to a great career.”

Melody Winter Head
Former ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Advisor & Community Development Leader

Voices from Our Network

The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship has allowed me to gain the skills, resources, and knowledge I need to succeed in my professional and financial life.
View Full Testimonial

Natalia Trejo
2023 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship has allowed me to gain the skills, resources, and knowledge I need to succeed in my professional and financial life.”

Natalia Trejo
2023 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Voices from Our Network

The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship program has really made [it] obvious for me. You see everyday I came in I was pushed to maximize my abilities.
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Omar Sosa-Garcia
2023 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship program has really made [it] obvious for me. You see everyday I came in I was pushed to maximize my abilities. I was pushed to be outgoing and collaborative; things I was not comfortable with nor confident in. Yet with the help of ‘B’ BOLD(ER) I was able to routinely practice this new persona that had been asked of me. It was not easy, however with time and encouragement, I got better. I am now confident to say that these things that once held me down are actually lifting me up.”

Omar Sosa-Garcia
2023 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Voices from Our Network

The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Internship taught me the importance of taking life into your own hands.
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Robin Tittelbaugh
2023 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Internship taught me the importance of taking life into your own hands. Through communication, leadership, empathy, and hard work, you can accomplish anything. I was given knowledge and opportunity that allows me to take huge steps to better my future as an employee and an individual. Thank you for this experience.”

Robin Tittelbaugh
2023 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Voices from Our Network

Being selected as a ‘B’ BOLD intern not only helped me learn about finances and banking, but also taught me about myself and how to improve and gain critical skills I will need in the future.
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Ryn Torres
2023 ‘B’ BOLD Intern

“Being selected as a ‘B’ BOLD intern not only helped me learn about finances and banking, but also taught me about myself and how to improve and gain critical skills I will need in the future. The internship showed me the value in having knowledge in many areas I may never have acquired if it weren’t for this opportunity, preparing me for what lies ahead. I now walk towards my future with the confidence to create my own future.”

Ryn Torres
2023 ‘B’ BOLD Intern

Voices from Our Network

The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship program has benefited my life in so many ways. I was always challenged to put my best foot forward and to find and share my voice.
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Shannon Lawrence
2024 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“The ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship program has benefited my life in so many ways. I was always challenged to put my best foot forward and to find and share my voice. This internship taught me how to collaborate in a team and embrace challenges head-on. I feel more confident in myself when it comes to public speaking and taking on leadership roles. This is thanks to the program’s ‘lead from the front’ approach, where skilled mentors show interns how to lead. This experience has been immensely rewarding, and I’m so grateful to Clearinghouse CDFI and all who made the ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship possible. Thank you!”

Shannon Lawrence
2024 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Voices from Our Network

My time as the ‘B’ BOLDER intern has been immensely rewarding. This internship has equipped me with foundational knowledge and practical skills
View Full Testimonial

Sofia Ruiz-Plasencia
2024 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

“My time as the ‘B’ BOLDER intern has been immensely rewarding. This internship has equipped me with foundational knowledge and practical skills that will help me navigate the professional world with confidence and competence.”

Sofia Ruiz-Plasencia
2024 ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Intern

Clearinghouse CDFI 'B' BOLD intern cohort sitting around conference room table, clapping after presentation from Internship Director Susan Montoya

Application Process overview

Your Path Into the Internship Program

Get Started

Confirm Open Application Window

Current Application Deadlines:
‘B’ BOLD: Summer 2026—CLOSED
‘B’ BOLD(ER): Summer 2026—CLOSED
‘B’ BOLD(ER): Winter 2027—Opens September 2026
Location
Confirm that the ‘B’ BOLD or ‘B’ BOLD(ER) internship program is currently available in your area.

‘B’ BOLD: Anywhere in U.S.

‘B’ BOLD(ER):
- Locations coming soon
Determine Eligibility

Applicants must meet income requirements and be current students who are motivated and ready to engage in a professional learning environment. Selected interns must be able to legally work in the United States and have a valid social security number.
Submit All Application Materials

Applicants must submit proof of eligibility, an employment application, a resume, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
Acceptance

Accepted interns receive onboarding details, program expectations, and support resources before their start date.

Program eligibility

Determine Your ‘B’ BOLD or ‘B’ BOLD(ER)
Eligibility Status

Program Requirements

Overview

Must be a junior or senior in high school by Fall 2026
Maintain at least a 2.5 GPA
Demonstrate income status eligibility

Income Eligibility Explained

High school and college students qualify as low- or moderate-income if their family’s annual income is at or below the stated limits.
Income eligibility is based on household size, as defined by HUD.
College students may also qualify if they have received a Federal Pell Grant; documentation is required.

Determine Your Income Eligibility

Determine low- or moderate-income status by following these instructions:

Visit https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/il.html#year2025
Select the button “Click Here for FY 2025 IL Documentation.”
Select the state and the county in which you live.
Select the button “View County Calculations.”
A low-income limit chart will populate. To read it, first select your family size. This column will determine your income limit. Next, find the row labeled “Low (80%) Income Limits ($).” Where the column and row intersect determines the maximum income allowed to qualify as low-income.

You are considered low-income for the purposes of ‘B’ BOLD/BOLD(ER) if your family income is at or below the Low (80%) Income Limits ($) for your family size.

apply now

Submit Your Internship Application Today

All Applicants

A complete ‘B’ BOLD or BOLD(ER) application package includes:

1. Completed Clearinghouse CDFI Employment Application

2. Resume with name and contact info, past work experience (if any), education, extracurriculars, scholarships, awards, volunteer activities, etc. Tip: Get this Student Resume Guide

3. Personal Statement: 1-2 pages, typed, about how your personal experience has shaped you into the person you are today and how that makes you a good candidate for this program. Tip: Use the essay portion to explain a low GPA, if applicable.

4. Letter(s) of recommendation (max. 2 letters) from a teacher, counselor, previous employer, or other professional (recommended).

5. Proof of a 2.5 GPA minimum is required.

6. Proof of low- or moderate-income status (or qualification for Federal Pell Grant for college students) is required.

During the open application period only, please email the above items to the Clearinghouse CDFI Internship Team.

Apply Now

Meet the ‘B’ BOLD &
‘B’ BOLD(ER)Cohorts

2026 ‘B’ BOLD & ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Internship Cohorts

• Special Anniversary Video Coming Soon!

• 2025 Clearinghouse CDFI Annual Meeting – ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Presentation

2022 ‘B’ BOLD & ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Internship Cohorts

• Read full interviews from Abigail, Fernanda, and Amayrani to get to know them!

• Check out Abigail Verdugo’s individual internship recap video!

• Check out Amayrani Tlatelpa’s individual internship recap video!

• Check out Fernanda Ortiz’s individual internship recap video!

• Check out the 2022 ‘B’ BOLD and BOLD(ER) Intern Video

2016-2021 ‘B’ BOLD Internship Cohorts

• Meet CCDFI’s 2021 ‘B’ BOLD Intern: Rafael Bravo

• Meet CCDFI’s 2021 ‘B’ BOLD Intern: Emily Del Toro

• Meet 2019 ‘B’ BOLD Intern: Marvin Luna

• Meet 2019 ‘B’ BOLD Intern: Rose Minsky

• 2018 ‘B’ BOLD Internship Exit Interview: Aylinne & Erika

• Meet 2018 ‘B’ Bold Intern: Erika Charco

• 2018 ‘B’ BOLD Internship Program Announced

• Good Luck, Not Goodbye—An Exit Interview with 2017 ‘B’ BOLD Interns

• 2017 ‘B’ BOLD Internship Program Announced

• A 2016 ‘B’ BOLD Intern Follow-Up: Jesus Medina, 1 Year Later

• News: 2016 ‘B’ BOLD Program Launches

Program Partners

Founding Partners

Supporting Partners

Internship FAQs

What is the difference between ‘B’ BOLD and ‘B’ BOLD(ER)?

‘B’ BOLD—Building Bridges through Outreach, Leadership, and Development—offers part-time, paid, summer internship positions (8 weeks long) to high school juniors or seniors from low- to moderate-income families. Upon program completion and subsequent college enrollment, interns receive an Alan Orechwa ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Memorial Scholarship to pay for college expenses.

‘B’ BOLD(ER)—Building Bridges through Outreach, Leadership, Development, Engagement, and Recruitment—offers part-time, paid internship positions for low- to moderate-income college students seeking to become the next generation of community development leaders. Upon program completion and proof of current college enrollment, interns receive an Alan Orechwa ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Memorial Scholarship paid directly to their school account.

Are ‘B’ BOLD and ‘B’ BOLD(ER) paid internships?

Yes. Both ‘B’ BOLD and ‘B’ BOLD(ER) are paid internship programs. The goal is to ensure students can participate without financial barriers while gaining meaningful professional experience and skills that support long-term career growth.

Interns receive minimum wage, plus a $2,500 Alan Orechwa ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Memorial Scholarship paid directly to their school account upon successful completion of the program and proof of current college enrollment.

What kinds of work will interns do during the program?

This internship is open to all low/moderate-income high school and college students (undergraduate or graduate; Business, Finance, and Community Development majors are preferred). College students will participate in a combination of virtual workshops presented by subject-matter experts and on-site experiences with our partners (banks or non-profit organizations). High school students will participate in online workshops only. Workshop topics include career exploration/preparedness, financial wellness, community development, public speaking, and office skills. Tasks may include research, outreach, marketing, affordable homeownership work, networking, loan servicing, Community Reinvestment Act documentation, public speaking skills, and more! In addition, you will interact with dozens of professionals to expand your network! This internship may be eligible for academic credit depending on your academic program’s internship criteria. Contact your school to learn more.

Do I need prior work experience to apply?

No prior professional experience is required. The programs are designed to support students at different stages of their academic and career journey. Curiosity, reliability, and a willingness to learn are more important than previous work history.

What kind of mentorship or support do interns receive?

Interns receive guidance from staff and program leaders throughout the internship. This may include regular check-ins, feedback on performance, and opportunities to ask questions and learn about different career paths. The programs emphasize growth, confidence-building, and professional development.

How long do the internships last?

Internship lengths vary depending on the cohort and program level. Typically, winter cohorts are 16 weeks, and summer cohorts are 8 weeks. Specific timelines, schedules, and expectations are shared with applicants during the selection and onboarding process so interns can plan accordingly.

Can interns return or advance within the program?

While interns cannot return for additional cohorts, some interns have been offered a permanent position with their on-site partner. Alumni are also encouraged to stay connected through the program’s growing network.

Does completing the internship guarantee a job?

No. Participation in the ‘B’ BOLD or ‘B’ BOLD(ER) program does not guarantee employment with Clearinghouse CDFI. However, interns gain meaningful professional experience, mentorship, and networking opportunities that can support future career development.

Who are the ‘B’ BOLD & ‘B’ BOLD(ER) programs dedicated to?

The programs are dedicated in memory of Allen Peters Baldwin, in recognition of his long-standing commitment to supporting low-income families through community housing initiatives, and to Alan Orechwa, former CFO and Chairman of the Board at Clearinghouse CDFI, honored through the ‘B’ BOLD(ER) Memorial Scholarship. These dedications reflect Clearinghouse CDFI’s commitment to service, leadership, and opportunity.