What are the responsibilities and job description for the Green Finance and Climate Justice Research Intern position at Self-Help?
WHO We Are :
Self-Help started in 1980 with a focus on economic inequality especially in communities that have faced systemic barriers in building wealth. At the core of what Self-Help does is a drive to create and protect ownership and economic opportunity. In other words, we're committed to economic justice! Economic Justice means that all communities have the basic infrastructure they need to thrive, from high-quality schools to grocery stores selling fresh food resources that support opportunity at a neighborhood level regardless of demographics, income, or wealth. Since our founding, we've constantly sought to find new ways to pursue greater economic justice : from providing fair and affordable loans to working with partners to demand that lawmakers change unjust policies.
Self-Help's internship program is designed to give students valuable experience in a professional setting while broadening their knowledge of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). It is our hope that we can educate and create a passion for the field of community development in the next generation of leaders.
We are seeking a Green Finance and Climate Justice Research Intern to join our Miami Springs Team!
Are you interested in advancing economic equity and providing access to inclusive financial services for historically under-resourced communities? Self-Help's Miami Springs team is seeking an intern to support their efforts to create and protect ownership and economic opportunities for low-wealth families, communities of color, women, children, immigrants, and others.
The team works across Business Development, Deposit Raising, Community Engagement, Member Services, and Lending, serving South Florida communities with a focus on affordable housing, clean energy, and equitable financial access. They empower individuals and organizations through financial education, responsible lending, and advocacy while combating predatory lending practices. This full-time, 40-hour-per-week onsite summer internship runs from May 19th to August 1st and offers a professional development experience designed to enhance your skills and knowledge.
WHAT You'll Do :
- Support community engagement efforts to build relationships, raise awareness, and strengthen connections with communities impacted by climate change
- Conduct research on South Florida communities, including under-resourced areas affected by climate change and climate gentrification, to inform outreach initiatives
- Identify key organizations, such as government agencies and nonprofits, addressing climate justice challenges, and explore roles for a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) like Self-Help to make an impact
- Assist in advancing green lending programs, such as for energy-efficient home upgrades, residential solar, and electric vehicles, while investigating ways to deploy capital for community benefit
- Contribute to deposit-raising and resource-expansion efforts to support climate justice initiatives
- Attend community events and support other projects and duties as needed
WHAT You'll Need :
