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Safer Pest Control Project N.F.P. (SPCP), a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing pesticide use and promoting safer alternatives throughout Illinois, seeks winter intern. SPCP’s programs address both the public health risks and the environmental impacts of pesticides by promoting use of Integrated Pest Management or IPM.

Current program areas include schools, day care centers, low-income and public housing and yards and parks. SPCP engages and empowers communities through outreach, advocacy, coalition building, technical assistance, and model programs. SPCP works closely with government agencies and non profit organizations including the U.S. EPA, Chicago Public Schools, City of Chicago, Chicago Housing Authority and American Lung Association. SPCP has a staff of five employees.

The focus of the internship will be to work with staff to develop, plan & implement a social networking strategy including:
• Developing and updating a Facebook or similar social networking site.
• Coordinate these efforts with our work to promote in pesticide reduction in Illinois and the surrounding states.
• Help program staff develop strategies for increasing our following through social networking capacities.

Successful applicants will have the following qualifications:
• Interest in SPCP’s mission;
• A good understanding of social networking formats and their uses;
• Ability to take initiative and work independently as well as in teams;
• Computer skills, including proficiency in online social networking systems and internet access from home or some other source.
• Undergraduate or graduate students in public health, public policy or environmental studies preferred.
• Able to devote 5-7 hours/week to social networking activities.

Additional information about the position:
This internship allows for work to be done from home, eliminating the need to commute. Most communications will be done through the telephone or email. Successful applicants can apply for a paid internship position likely to become available in 2010.

How to Apply:
Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references (including phone numbers) to Ruth Kerzee, by e-mail to rkerzee@spcpweb.org or my mail to Safer Pest Control Project, 4611 N. Ravenswood Ste. 107 Chicago, IL 60640. We will work with you to receive academic credit through your school.

Please do not phone with questions regarding the hiring process. For general information regarding SPCP, please visit www.SPCPweb.org.

Safer Pest Control Project is an equal opportunity employer.