Center for Poverty Solutions Intern

The Illinois Policy Institute is seeking a Center for Poverty Solutions intern to join our team. The intern will work closely with the Center for Poverty Solutions Civics and Service Incubator to support key coalition-building initiatives. This includes collaborating with new and existing partnerships, disseminating research, assisting in the development of policy agendas, and creating compelling content about the Centers work to find solutions to poverty and help people get back to work.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the Illinois Policy Institutes mission of promoting free markets and liberty principles while gaining valuable experience in poverty reduction, community outreach, partnership development, policy research, policy creation, communications, and advocacy in the city of Chicago.

For 8 to 12 weeks, youll work in our Chicago office as a valued member of the Illinois Policy Institute team. Youll collaborate with the Centers executive director, policy fellow, community partners, analysts, policy experts, and government affairs staff to advance efforts to create a freer, more prosperous Illinois.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with partner engagement and communications, analyze data, or conduct research to support departmental initiatives.
• Collaborate with team members to establish best practices for community engagement to reduce poverty, develop program content, and streamline processes.
• Conduct research, analysis, writing, and outreach that align with organizational priorities.
• Support ongoing projects by maintaining email databases, proofreading materials, or creating tools to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of workforce programs.
• Contribute to the teams success through creative problem-solving, innovation, brainstorming, or administrative support.

Qualifications

• A strong interest in public policy, grassroots organizational development, data analytics, communications, civics, workforce development, education, housing, reentry, or free-market principles.
• Currently pursuing or having completed a degree in political science, social science, American history, religion, economics, data science, computer science, or journalism.
• Excellent writing, research, and technical skills, with high attention to detail and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• A proactive mindset, a willingness to learn, and alignment with the Illinois Policy Institutes mission and values.

Internship Details

This internship is expected to begin in June 2025 and will run for 8 to 12 weeks.