Policy and Advocacy Intern

NCJW; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

NCJW invites rising college juniors and seniors to explore advocacy and the legislative process through this internship/fellowship.

This program emphasizes social justice, civic engagement, and equitable policy. While DC-based candidates are preferred for in-person work, exceptional remote applicants will be considered.

Qualifications

• Strong writing and communication skills with the ability to learn quickly.
• Willingness to learn and get involved; no prior professional experience required.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Two years of higher education or commensurate experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Policy and Legislation: Learn about public policy and the legislative process by assisting staff and representing NCJW at hearings, briefings, coalition meetings, rallies, and press conferences.
• Issue Advocacy: Assist with issue portfolios such as reproductive rights, voting rights, and economic justice.
• Communications Support: Draft and edit advocacy materials, including talking points and policy updates.
• Lobby Day: Plan and execute a lobby day by researching NCJW priority issues and scheduling meetings.
• Administrative and Operational Support: Support department operations, scheduling, materials, and day-to-day tasks.
• Professional Development: Participate in regular training and mentorship opportunities.

Skills

Strong writing

Communication skills

Willingness to learn

Excellent attention to detail

Education

Two years of higher education

Job description

National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a 133-year-old Jewish feminist civil rights organization working for equity and justice for women, children, and families in the United States and Israel. With 250,000 grassroots advocates and 46 local sections, we combine education, direct service, and advocacy to create lasting social change. We approach our work through a Jewish, gender, economic, and racial justice lens, centering those most impacted. Our deep partnerships across civil rights, faith-based, and governmental spaces reflect our intersectional values.

NCJW is pleased to offer internships to rising college juniors and seniors as well as fellowships for graduate students. This is a great opportunity to learn first-hand about advocacy and the legislative process. This program is ideal for individuals who are passionate about social justice, civic engagement, and creating lasting, positive change. Please note that while there is a strong preference for DC-based candidates who can complete the internship/fellowship in-person, we will consider exceptional remote applicants.

Opportunities & Responsibilities

• Policy and Legislation: Learn about public policy and the legislative process by assisting staff and representing NCJW at legislative hearings, briefings, national coalition meetings, rallies, and press conferences.
• Issue Advocacy: Assist with issue portfolios, such as reproductive rights, judicial nominations, voting rights, economic justice, LGBTQ+ equality, religious liberty, and immigration.
• Communications Support: Draft and edit advocacy materials, including talking points, regulatory comments, letters, op-eds, policy updates, etc.
• Lobby Day: Plan and execute a lobby day by researching an NCJW priority issue, scheduling meetings, and meeting with congressional staff and/or your members of Congress to advocate.
• Administrative and Operational Support: Provide essential administrative support for the department, including managing schedules, preparing materials, coordinating meetings, and helping with day-to-day operations. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of how a non-profit organization functions behind the scenes.
• Professional Development: Participate in regular training sessions, mentorship opportunities, and collaborative projects designed to enhance your leadership, advocacy, and communication skills. You'll work alongside experienced professionals in the nonprofit sector, gaining invaluable insights and connections to help further your career.

Qualifications

• Strong writing and communication skills, ability to learn quickly, and a commitment to NCJW's issues..
• No previous professional experience necessary, just a willingness to learn and get involved.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Two years of higher education or commensurate experience is strongly preferred.

Schedule

• 12 hours per week, spread across 2 or 3 days
• Late January to early May
  

Compensation

$18.40/hour and/or academic credit

NCJW is an equal opportunity employer. Women, LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.