Federal Public Policy Intern
About Food Lifeline
Food Lifeline works with the food industry to come up with creative solutions to stopping hunger, including redirecting good food from manufacturers, farmers, grocery stores and restaurants that might otherwise go to waste. This wholesome food goes out to 275 member agencies. These food banks, food pantries, hot meal programs, shelters and after-school programs have all been certified by Food Lifeline to meet the highest standards for client care and food safety. Food Lifeline provides 91,000 meals a day to local food assistance programs, and that, combined with policy work, creates a sustainable approach to stopping hunger.
Description
Food Lifeline is looking for a Federal Public Policy intern for Fall and/or Winter quarter in the 2016-17 academic year (student could participate during both quarters, or just one). This position provides an opportunity for students to learn about federal legislative processes, policy and advocacy in the context of federal nutrition programs and budget. The intern who fills this position will gain valuable Public Policy experience by tracking federal legislation including Child Nutrition Reauthorization, Farm Bill, and appropriations.
Qualifications
- Organized and detail‐oriented while working on a wide range of tasks.
- Computer proficiency in MS office applications; familiarity or interest in Raiser’s Edge and Tableau a plus.
- Occasional week day evening or weekend availability.
- Interest in learning about the federal public policy-making process.
- Interest in use of social media for federal advocacy efforts.
- Baseline knowledge of government nutrition assistance programs helpful.
- Juniors, seniors, and graduate students preferred.
Internship Description
- Conducting legislative research, developing policy fact sheets, position papers, tracking legislation, and viewing hearings and briefings.
- Provide research support on various topics, organizations, and key players in the field.
- Write blog postings and action alerts, assist with social media postings.
- Monitor social media presence and communications of congressional delegation.
- Assist with policy analysis, writing, and editing reports and other projects, as relevant.
- Communicate with government and candidate offices, via email and telephone.
- Research public policy related to food assistance, nutrition education, and income support.
This is a part time internship (10-20 hours a week) for fall and/or winter quarters (September 2016 through March 2017). Scheduling is flexible and we can work around school schedules and obligations. This internship is unpaid, but travel reimbursement is provided for attending hearings, briefings, conferences, forums or other off site meetings. The position is based at the Food Lifeline office at 815 S 96th St, Seattle WA. Academic credit and completion requirements to be arranged through intern’s institution.
Please submit a resume and cover letter describing how this internship would further your educational and career goals, and the quarter(s) you’re interested in participating, to Katharine Ryan, Policy and Research Manager (kathariner@foodlifeline.org) by August 28, 2016 to apply.