JOB SUMMARY:

This position provides an opportunity for a student or recent graduate to gain hands-on experience in public policy, social services, and advocacy work. The intern will assist the Public Policy team at The Salvation Army National Headquarters (NHQ) in research, legislative tracking, event coordination, and policy analysis related to social services. The internship is designed to provide exposure to federal policymaking and nonprofit advocacy, helping the intern develop professional skills in a faith-based service organization.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Assist in monitoring and analyzing national legislative and administrative policies impacting The Salvation Army’s social service programs, including housing, food assistance, and support for vulnerable populations.
• Conduct research and draft policy briefs, reports, and legislative summaries to support advocacy efforts.
• Track and compile relevant legislative developments, hearings, and agency regulations related to public policy priorities.
• Support the planning and coordination of advocacy events, including Capitol Hill briefings, meetings with congressional staff, and public policy webinars.
• Assist in preparing public policy materials, such as one-pagers, comment letters, and social media content related to legislative priorities.
• Attend coalition meetings, policy briefings, and hearings to represent The Salvation Army and summarize key takeaways.
• Work with NHQ and Territorial staff to support public policy initiatives at national and regional levels.
• Maintain organized records of outreach efforts and track follow-ups with elected officials and policymakers.
• Assist in internal communication efforts to keep NHQ and field staff informed on policy updates.
• Perform administrative tasks as needed to support the Public Policy team.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Participate in discussions, lectures, and workshops related to public policy and social services.
• Assist in coordinating virtual and in-person policy events.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Current undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Social Work, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Previous experience in policy research, advocacy, or nonprofit work is preferred but not required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Strong interest in public policy, government affairs, and social services.
• Knowledge of congressional policymaking processes and federal agencies preferred.
• Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ability to conduct online research.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks.
• Commitment to the mission of The Salvation Army and a willingness to work in a faith-based environment.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work will take place in a standard office setting at The Salvation Army National Headquarters in Alexandria, VA.
• Occasional travel within Washington, D.C., may be required for policy-related meetings and events.

Summer Internship Duration: May 12 - July 25

Job Type: Internship

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• No weekends

Ability to Commute:

• Alexandria, VA 22314 (Required)

Work Location: In person