What are the responsibilities and job description for the Public Policy Fellow position at United Way for Southeastern Michigan?
Public Policy Fellowship with United Way for Southeastern Michigan
The mission of United Way for Southeastern Michigan (UWSEM) is to mobilize the caring power of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan to improve communities and individual lives in measurable and lasting ways. We believe that effective policy is crucial to creating long-lasting positive change in our community. Our focus is on economic mobility, basic needs and education - the building blocks for a good quality of life.
UWSEM's Public Policy team is offering a fellowship opportunity to one motivated individual with a passion for systems change in Southeastern Michigan. The program runs during corresponding academic semesters and applications are currently being accepted for consideration for the winter semester 2024 (January-May).
The fellow will have the opportunity to develop a broad range of skills working in a nonprofit, nonpartisan setting while gaining valuable hands-on experience working on public policy issues that will help advance United Way's mission across the region. The fellow will fully participate in all aspects of the policy team's work including advocacy campaigns, coalition building, government relations and communications. As a full member of the team the fellow will have the opportunity not only to participate, but to help determine the direction of our work.
This Fellowship is unpaid but upon successful completion of the program, a $5,000 scholarship stipend will be granted to the fellow. The fellow will also receive free parking for the duration of the Fellowship.
Core Responsibilities
- Regular legislative research and analysis
- Prepare weekly summary of legislative news
- Support the development and planning of projects, events, and workshops
- Attend hearings, briefings, and events as needed
- Provide support to public policy team members
- Attend staff meetings
Qualifications
- Must be currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a 4-year undergraduate program or graduate program with a focus on political science, public policy, or a related field.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to accomplish tasks independently
- Ability to manage multiple tasks at a time and meet deadlines
- Must be able to commit to a minimum of 15 hours of work per week
- Demonstrate a commitment to teamwork
- Demonstrate an interest in advocacy and engagement
- Demonstrate a commitment to Southeastern Michigan
- Strong computer skills (including Outlook, Microsoft Word and Excel)
- Good interpersonal skills
Please apply by clicking the "Apply" button. Resumes, cover letters and Applications must be received by 1/10/2025
