About the role#
The Partnerships & Organizing Team works to help people directly impacted by systems of oppression get civically engaged. This internship or practicum placement focuses on political education and community organizing. You will work alongside staff to support the mission of ArchCity Defenders.
What you'll do#
- Conduct one-on-one interviews with impacted people.
- Coordinate meetings with elected officials and prepare community members for testifying at Board of Aldermen committee meetings.
- Participate in, plan, and facilitate community outreach, canvassing, phone banking, and text banking.
- Assist with the planning and facilitation of Movement meetings, Townhalls, and Campaign Member Kickbacks.
- Attend Board of E&A and Board of Aldermen meetings to provide note-taking and report-backs.
- Participate in political education training.
- Support staff with social work services and attend strategy meetings as assigned.
What you'll need#
- Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
- A commitment to racial and economic justice and systems change.
- Cultural awareness and sensitivity toward diverse populations.
- An understanding of structures of power, privilege, and oppression.
- Basic administrative skills and a detail-oriented approach to team work.
- High capacity for problem-solving and self-direction.
- Ability to work independently within time constraints and adapt to changing needs.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, paid position based in St. Louis, Missouri.
- The internship runs from June 1, 2027, to July 30, 2027.
- A mandatory, in-person orientation takes place June 1-4, 2027.
- Expected hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Fridays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Work is on-site at our office in North St. Louis City, though this is subject to change based on public health requirements.
- Note that this role may require work during nights or weekends.
- We cannot accept applicants who are simultaneously engaged in another internship.
About ArchCity Defenders
ArchCity Defenders is a legal advocacy organization based in St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 2009, the group provides civil and criminal legal representation alongside social services. It focuses on addressing the criminalization of poverty and state violence in communities of color. The organization employs a holistic model that integrates legal work with policy and media advocacy.
How to get in at ArchCity Defenders
Applying to ArchCity Defenders requires a clear understanding of their focus on civil rights and systemic advocacy. Because roles in public interest law are competitive, Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a position is published so you can apply among the first. Getting your application in early ensures your materials are reviewed before the volume of candidates grows too large. You can also use Intern Insider to surface the recruiters behind these roles to reach out directly. Asking a thoughtful question about the organization or requesting a referral often improves your response rate compared to submitting a cold application through a general queue.
