About the role#
The New Work Exploration team identifies new ways for the Foundation to address social challenges. As an intern, you will help the team explore how philanthropy can support youth well-being, voice, and agency. You will work with the Research Project Manager to translate research and stakeholder perspectives into program strategy, planning, and internal communications. This is a mentored learning experience where your assignments will evolve based on team priorities and your own interests.
What you'll do#
- Conduct and synthesize research on relevant issues, organizations, and philanthropic approaches to produce briefs that inform strategy.
- Research approaches to meaningful youth participation.
- Support stakeholder engagement through outreach, meeting preparation, and participation in conversations or site visits.
- Analyze how potential and current grant recipients support positive outcomes for young people.
- Develop and present a final project that synthesizes your learning and contributes to the department.
- Participate in team meetings, staff learning opportunities, and regular mentorship sessions.
- Contribute to short-term research and planning tasks as needs arise.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment as an undergraduate or graduate student in public policy, social sciences, nonprofit management, public health, science, or humanities.
- You must be returning to school after the internship.
- Experience or interest in youth engagement, building agency, and supporting mental health and well-being.
- Strong research and writing skills.
- Internet and social media fluency.
- Flexibility to manage multiple assignments.
- Prior interaction with nonprofit organizations is desired.
- Experience with efforts supporting young people ages 13-25 in fields like civic engagement, organizing, justice, climate, journalism, or arts and culture is a plus.
Location & details#
- Location: Chicago, Illinois.
- Term: June 8 to August 11, 2027.
- Modality: Hybrid, with designated in-office and virtual days.
- Employment: Full-time paid internship at $22.00 per hour.
About MacArthur Foundation
The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Chicago. Founded in 1978, it supports institutions and individuals working on social challenges like climate change and nuclear risk. The foundation also funds journalism and local projects in its home city. It employs between 51 and 200 people.
How to get in at MacArthur Foundation
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