Internships

Internships are an indispensable part of the vital work performed by Rural Neighborhoods. Our internship program offers opportunities to gain experience in political activism, consider career options, and strengthen job-related skills. Internships may be used to receive college credit. We are looking for undergraduate and graduate students who care about poverty in rural America and are driven to bring about community change. We look for strong leadership skills, academic excellence, problem solving ability, top-notch written and verbal skills, eagerness to learn, and a sense of humor.

  • Fundraising and Development Internship

    The internship spans all areas including managing relationships with and cultivating donors, planning special events, maintaining records, contributing to grant research and coordinating with volunteers.

  • Public Policy Internship

    Rural Neighborhoods is seeking a public policy intern to help advance our work on affordable housing, rural issues, agricultural labor and immigration.

  • Special Projects Internship

    Rural Neighborhoods also seeks resourceful, innovative individuals who wish to undertake a special project that contributes to our mission and furthers your academic interest.

  • Technology Internship

    The internship spans a mix of technical work including web design and maintenance, social media outreach, maintaining database records and tutoring non-technical staff in new workplace tools.

So, what do interns with Rural Neighborhoods do? Make a real impact on the lives of working families!

You’ll learn how to raise money, use technology to change the world, analyze housing and community development problems, advocate for smart solutions and build public support. And you’ll work one-on-one with a member of our leadership team, providing a unique, mentored experience.

Rural Neighborhoods is located near Homestead, FL between Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Park and the Florida Keys – just 45 minutes southwest of Miami and the beaches.

How to Apply

  • Download the Application

    To apply for an internship, please complete the internship application. Please include the cover letter, resume, writing sample and references with the completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Rural Neighborhoods requires four to six weeks from receipt to process applications. Phone interviews will be conducted for those applicants under serious consideration. Highest consideration is given to applicants who have demonstrated a strong interest in community change and poverty issues through service, advocacy, or academic studies and are also supportive of our social policy agenda. The level of knowledge and skill an applicant brings is particularly important within the context of a specific internship position. Since your internship will be a serious investment of your time and energy, it is important to consider what you hope to gain. This will guide us in finding the best fit. Placement options are also determined by the length and hours of service you are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am not a United States Citizen or Permanent Resident, am I still eligible to apply for an internship?
Yes. Rural Neighborhoods encourages all who are interested to apply regardless of nationality. Please be advised, however, that each individual is responsible for obtaining proper legal documentation to stay in the United States for the duration of their internship.

May I apply to more than one internship position?
Yes. You may apply for more than one internship position. Please indicate your preference in the application form.

When does the student begin their internships with Rural Neighborhoods?
Usually an intern will begin at the outset of an academic or summer term. In making an application, please state the preferred start and end dates. Rural Neighborhoods will try to establish a time frame that meets our needs and that of the student. This should be discussed during the selection process.

How many hours does an intern have to work?
Either part time or full time commitments are acceptable. Hours should be agreed in the beginning so there are no misunderstandings later.

What does Rural Neighborhoods expect from its interns?
Rural Neighborhoods expects interns to work the agreed upon number of hours per week in a professional capacity, adhere to office policies and procedures and follow office etiquette, dress in appropriate business casual attire and contact their supervisor when unable to report to the office or when arriving late due to illness, doctor appointment, etc.
We also urge you to seek feedback from supervisors on assignments and look for ways to improve. Participating and asking questions is important!

Are the internships paid?
Our internships are unpaid, and we cannot provide housing or travel assistance. We will work with you to secure academic credit from your college or university if that is an option. Persons in need of financial aid to support their internship are encouraged to explore potential funding sources through the career services or alumni offices on their campus. Undergraduate and graduate schools offer scholarships, stipends, or off-campus work-study to facilitate participation in public interest internships. It is wise to begin your search for an internship as early as possible if finances are a concern.

If you have further questions, please contact us at giving@ruralneighborhoods.org