Citizens Union of the City of New York is a nonpartisan good government group dedicated to making democracy work for all New Yorkers. Citizens Union serves as a civic watchdog, combating corruption and fighting for political reform. We work to ensure fair and open elections, honest and efficient government, and a civically-engaged public. Principled and pragmatic, Citizens Union is an independent force for constructive reform, driving policy and educating the public to achieve accountable government in the City and State of New York. Citizens Union Foundation is the non-profit research and education organization affiliated with Citizens Union since 1948. Believing an informed citizenry is the cornerstone of good government, Citizens Union Foundation publishes www.GothamGazette.com, an award-winning news and policy Web site. It has more than 100,000 unique visitors per month who are largely well-educated and civic-minded New Yorkers.
Our interns play a vital role in Citizens Union's success. The following are some of the responsibilities of Citizens Union's policy and research interns:
- Conducting research on organizational issues of importance, including election reform, campaign finance, ethics and lobbying, workforce reform, pension reform and other issues of good governance;
- Writing and editing issue summaries, reports, policy briefings, organizational position statements, and correspondence to public officials;
- Assisting in advocacy for Citizens Union's state and city policy agenda items;
- Drafting correspondence and action alerts to Citizens Union's membership;
- Tracking and monitoring news coverage of issues of importance to the organization;
- Monitoring and attending relevant city and state legislative hearings, Board of Elections meetings and other relevant events and forums.
We require interns to commit a minimum of 12 hours per week (though two full days is preferred) and are willing to work with your academic institution if you are interested in receiving credit. We do not offer paid internships; however, we provide a modest travel stipend. Internships are typically semester-based or take place during the summer months of late June to mid August; extensions are possible.
Qualifications: Writing, editing, research and communication skills important. Basic computer proficiency required, specifically Microsoft Office. Interest in New York City and State politics, policy, and civic life necessary.
To apply: Please submit a cover letter highlighting your experience and interests along with a résumé via email to internship@citizensunionfoundation.org; to Internship Coordinator, Citizens Union, 299 Broadway Suite 700, NY, NY 10007; or Fax: (212)-227-0345. Your cover letter should include what attracts you to this position, what skills you would bring to the internship, when you hope to start, and how much time you can spend with us. We accept applications throughout the year.
