Government Affairs & Policy Intern

Metropolitan Family Services empowers families to learn, to earn, to heal, to thrive. Part mentor, part motivator, part advocate, since 1857, Metropolitan Family Services (MFS) has been the engine of change that empowers families to reach their greatest potential and positively impact their communities. Metropolitan is Illinois’ first comprehensive human services agency and reaches more than 205,000 individuals and families in Chicago, Evanston/Skokie, the southwest suburbs and DuPage County with services promoting education, economic stability, emotional wellness and empowerment.

We are now searching for a Policy & Government Affairs Intern to join our Headquarters (HQ) Team!

This is an unpaid internship for current college students needing the hours to complete a course or graduation requirements.

Daily responsibilities can include some of or all of the following:

• Offer support in executing Government Affairs and Policy Department initiatives to engage and influence government decision-makers in support of agency objectives to support agency clients and geographies. Provides consultation on advocacy issues to staff and community-based coalitions.
• Learn to develop specialized communications related to Government Affairs and Policy, and MFS’ strategic initiatives, including fact sheets, talking points, testimony, resource toolkits, and correspondence with officials as well as planning and other documents targeting legislators, policymakers, external stakeholders, staff and clients.
• Assist with writing regular advocacy communication pieces for internal and external audiences including a monthly advocacy newsletter, internal Advocacy Action Center content, and language for action alerts.
• Learn to promote the MFS’ legislative advocacy agenda. Monitors specific legislation, policy initiatives and emerging issues, as assigned. Maintains knowledge of public policy trends. Analyzes relevant policy areas and recommends action to the agency.
• Represents the MFS in local, state, and national activities, as assigned.
• Assist in coordinating the agency-wide Advocacy Task Force (ATF) committee meetings.
• Supports with developing, refining and distributing materials, and follow-up action items for ATF and its policy workgroups, including materials, minutes, and meeting tools.
• Learn to collaborate with the Vice President of Policy and Government Affairs, the Government Affairs and Policy team, and stakeholders to plan and carry out department projects.
• Assist monitoring federal policies, including department and agency directives and guidance, and can assess potential impacts to MFS.
• Attends weekly Government Affairs and Policy team meetings, and other meetings as assigned.
• Support in carrying out other projects and administrative assignments.
• Works effectively with diverse staff and service population.
• Other departmental duties, as assigned.
  
  

Skill, Attributes, And Qualifications

Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master's student, in public policy or public administration, social sciences, or related field.
  
  

Commitment To Social Justice

• Commitment to the mission and values of MFS, as demonstrated by a professional approach that is strength-based, trauma-informed, inclusive, and grounded in the advancement of human rights and social, economic justice equity.
  
  

Language/Communication Skills

• Excellent written and oral communication skills. Demonstrated ability to speak and write persuasively to a range of audiences. Ability to respond to common inquiries from stakeholders, policymakers, or elected officials; communicate effectively with diverse audiences;
  
  

Computer Skills

• Demonstrated proficiency with computer skills in word processing, spreadsheets and internet usage, including new media. Familiarity with Microsoft Office package.
  
  

Other Skills And Attributes

• Demonstrated ability to think critically, solve problems creatively and manage multiple assignments under deadlines. Strong project management skills, including experience developing and implementing strategic and tactical plans to set and achieve outcomes. Experience and comfort with public speaking and facilitation. Commitment to effective networking and collaboration and demonstrated ability to build productive working relationships with diverse staff and external stakeholders. Strong planning, facilitation, and organizational skills. Ability to work under tight timelines, think conceptually, and take a proactive role in executing and completing projects. Ability to work well in groups and within teams as well as individually. This position will require moderate travel.