Federal Advocacy Internship -- National Alliance to End Homelessness

Start Date: January 2011

About the National Alliance to End Homelessness: The National Alliance to End Homelessness is a leading voice on the issue of homelessness. The Alliance analyzes policy and develops proven, sensible policy solutions. We work collaboratively with the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to build state and local capacity, leading to stronger programs which help homeless individuals and families make positive changes in their lives. We provide data and research to policymakers and advocate for improved policy.

Job Description: The Alliance approaches advocacy from a practical perspective with the intent of obtaining more resources for local programs which prevent and end homelessness. In the coming year, the Alliance will continue working with local programs and partner organizations to educate members of Congress.

A Federal Advocacy Intern will gain an understanding of how to impact federal policy, how local constituents can influence federal policy, strategy and message development for effective advocacy, programs that successfully end homelessness, and the root causes of and solutions to homelessness.

It is an exciting time at the Alliance that will afford an intern a whirlwind of opportunities.

Responsibilities: Work with the Program and Policy Associate and other Alliance staff to:
o Manage and coordinate communications and other activities for at least three of our major federal advocacy campaigns (related to the 112th Congress, appropriations, and other legislation). This work will include:
o Helping to create campaign work plans;
o Assisting in advocate outreach management;
o Tracking progress toward campaign goals;
o Assisting in outreach efforts to the new Congress;
o Attending meetings on Capitol Hill; and
o Helping to plan congressional briefings, meetings, and events.
o Participate in strategy discussions;
o Contribute to the Alliance’s daily blog and other website content;
o Begin preparing for the Alliance’s annual Capitol Hill Day in July;
o Attend regular staff meetings and external meetings and hearings as a representative of the Alliance; and
o Complete other administrative tasks as needed.

Qualifications: The successful candidate will:
o Have, or be pursuing a BA;
o Be interested in federal policy and the policymaking process as well as issues related to social services and poverty;
o Be outgoing with excellent communication skills in writing and speaking;
o Have excellent organizational skills, and an ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously;
o Be extremely detail oriented (this is an absolute must);
o Have experience with the Microsoft Office Suite (especially Word and Excel); and
o Have some experience with social media. Website design/maintenance experience a plus.

Availability: We are preferably looking for someone to commit to full-time during the spring semester (January – May), though we are very flexible.

Compensation: This position will be unpaid; however, the Alliance is willing to work with your program for class credit, if applicable.

To apply:
Send a cover letter and resume to Kate Seif, preferably by email.
Kate Seif, Assistant to the President, National Alliance to End Homelessness
Phone: 202-942-8281
Fax: 202-638-4664
Email: cseif@naeh.org
Web: www.endhomelessness.org