Public Policy and Advocacy Intern (Spring 2025 Semester)

About Jubilee Housing

The mission of Jubilee Housing is building diverse, compassionate communities that create opportunities for everyone to thrive. Since 1973, Jubilee has worked to provide high quality affordable housing and holistic support to those experiencing persistent economic hardship in the Adams Morgan and Columbia Heights neighborhoods of Washington D.C. Jubilee operates more than a dozen properties totaling more than 500 homes and has an active development pipeline of several hundred new affordable housing units in progress, including a integration of a first in kind aquaponics farm. Jubilee also offers robust programming for residents and community members as they pursue life goals.

Jubilee Housing is an innovator in financing affordable housing and a responsible steward of the investments it receives. Jubilee produces Justice Housing® which is affordable to those with few financial assets, located in neighborhoods where resources such as good schools, grocery stores, and public transportation are readily accessible and near services that support as they pursue educational and career attainment. Jubilee is seeking individuals who want to work with us to ensure Justice Housing becomes a reality for all who need it.

Position Description

Reporting to the Vice President of External Affairs – the Public Policy & Advocacy Intern will be responsible for providing support to Jubilee Housing’s external affairs and public policy work in 3 primary areas:

• Promoting Affordable Housing
• Out of School Time Programs for Children and Youth
• Support efforts for Returning Citizens
  
  

Specific Duties

• Support Jubilee Leadership: Assist Jubilee leadership in representing the organization at public forums, panels, and other external engagements. Focus on advancing the organization's mission, particularly the promotion of Justice Housing, to diverse audiences.
• Advocacy and Coalition Participation: Actively engage in relevant advocacy organizations and coalitions that align with Jubilee’s goals. Contribute to efforts centered on affordable housing, challenges faced by returning citizens, and out-of-school-time programs.
• Legislative and Policy Analysis: Conduct thorough reviews and analyses of District of Columbia legislative, administrative, and budget proposals that impact Jubilee Housing’s mission and strategic objectives.
• Training and Support: Provide training and support to staff, volunteers, and residents on legislative advocacy and community priorities. Empower stakeholders to effectively advocate for issues critical to Jubilee’s mission.
• Testimony Preparation: Assist in drafting testimonies related to budgets and legislative initiatives, particularly in areas of affordable housing, out-of-school-time programs, and support for returning citizens.
• Community Engagement: Participate in neighborhood associations and Advisory Neighborhood Commissions (ANCs) where Jubilee Housing properties are located. Support the organization in navigating issues related to zoning, property development, and other neighborhood concerns.
  
  

Desired Qualifications

• Educational Background: Pursuing or recently completed a degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Urban Planning, Social Work, Law, or a related field.
• Commitment to Social Justice: Strong interest in affordable housing, equity, and issues faced by returning citizens and underserved communities.
• Legislative Knowledge: Familiarity with the legislative process and policy analysis, particularly within the District of Columbia.
• Research and Communication Skills: Strong analytical abilities with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Advocacy Experience: Experience in advocacy, community organizing, or coalition building, particularly in housing, education, or criminal justice reform.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to work effectively with diverse groups, including community members and external partners.
• Attention to Detail and Organization: High accuracy, attention to detail, and strong time management skills.
• Technology Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and familiarity with legislative tracking tools.
• Local Knowledge: Knowledge of Washington, D.C.’s neighborhoods, especially the Adams Morgan and Columbia Road areas, is a plus.
  
  

Compensation

A monthly stipend will be provided; this internship is eligible for college credit.

Background and Reference Checks

Finalists for this position will be required to consent to a pre-employment background and provide 1 - 2 professional/academic references as a condition of employment.

Duration

Spring 2025 Semester (Possibility to extend into the summer)

Term and Work Schedule

To be determined based on a mutually agreeable schedule with the expectation that intern will work approximately 15 - 20 hours per week.

Hybrid Work Model

Jubilee observes a hybrid work schedule; agreed upon schedule with manage.

To Apply

Complete the online application and send a writing sample to tholcomb@jubileehousing.org by February 14, 2025.

Jubilee Housing is an Equal Opportunity Employer

PI260884741