Public Policy and Legislative Affairs Intern

Overview of Meals on Wheels America

Meals on Wheels America is the leadership organization supporting the more than 5,000 community-based programs across the country that are dedicated to addressing senior hunger and isolation. Powered by a dedicated volunteer workforce, this network delivers a comprehensive solution that begins with a meal and is proven to enable independence and well-being through the additional benefits of tailored nutrition, social connection, safety and much more. By providing funding, programming, education, research and advocacy, Meals on Wheels America empowers its local member programs to strengthen their communities, one senior at a time. For more information, or to find a Meals on Wheels provider near you, visit www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org.

This summer, Meals on Wheels America will host interns to add capacity and help fulfill our mission. All interns will be an integral part of the organization and will receive individualized attention and professional mentorship. They will be a part of the team during an important period of organizational growth and evolution and will have a hand in some of the major transition projects. All interns will meet bimonthly to discuss projects and share insights. Additional training and professional development opportunities will be made available throughout the internship.

Meals on Wheels America prides itself on having a vibrant and healthy culture that is both professional and fun. Interns will be able to participate in regular social activities with staff as well as attend staff meetings and briefings.

Timing

The internship will begin on Monday, June 1, 2026, and end Friday, August 14, 2026. All interns are expected to commit a minimum of 8 and a maximum of 24 hours per week, depending on the internship design, for a period of 11 weeks. Business hours are 9am-5:30pm, Monday-Friday. The schedule will be flexible and will allow for time off as needed.

Location

Meals on Wheels America embraces a flexible hybrid working model, aiming to meet in person for strategy discussions, team building, and brainstorming. Our office building is at 1550 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA (accessible from the Crystal City Metro stop on the Blue and Yellow metro lines).

Position Summary

Meals on Wheels America is seeking a dedicated and passionate Public Policy and Legislative Affairs Intern for the summer of 2026. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in public policy, grassroots advocacy, and nonprofit management within the context of senior nutrition and well-being. The position reports to the Public Policy and Legislation Manager and is an Arlington, VA based, flexible hybrid working role.

Duties and Responsibilities

Policy Research and Legislative Analysis:

• Conduct research on federal policy issues affecting senior nutrition programs and the aging population.
• Analyze legislation, regulations, and policy developments relevant to Meals on Wheels America’s advocacy priorities.
• Summarize findings and contribute to the development of policy briefs, reports, and advocacy materials.
• Attend and help prepare for external government relations opportunities, such as meetings or briefings on Capitol Hill and other public-facing policy events. Events may take place virtually or in-person.

Grassroots Advocacy and Engagement:

• Assist with the implementation of grassroots campaigns to support Meals on Wheels America’s advocacy agenda.
• Support the creation and dissemination of advocacy resources, including action alerts, e-newsletters, and social media content.
• Collaborate with colleagues to amplify advocacy efforts and engage supporters through digital platforms.

Programmatic Support:

• Assist in maintaining and updating advocacy databases and contact lists.
• Provide general administrative support to the Advocacy Team, including meeting scheduling, note-taking, and document management.
• Participate in team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Current enrollment in a relevant undergraduate or graduate program, such as public policy, political science, social work, public health, or a related field, preferred.
• Strong interest in public policy, advocacy, and nonprofit organizations, with a focus on issues impacting older adults and vulnerable populations.
• Excellent research, writing, and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex policy issues into clear and compelling messages.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work effectively in a bi-partisan, non-political manner.
• Model the Association's cultural attributes of Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, Empowerment and Service (C.A.R.E.S.)

Candidates meeting 75% or more of the above qualifications should apply.

Pay rate - $17.50 per hour