Policy and Advocacy Intern

Description

Type: Summer or Fall Internship (unpaid)  

Reports to: Sr. Director of Policy 

Office Location: 224 W Hill St Suite 410, Chicago, IL ; required in-office minimum of 3 days per week (hybrid work policy subject to change).   

Title: Policy and Advocacy Intern 

Shift: At least 16 hours per week  

Background: 

Guided by the experiences of those living with mental health conditions and rooted in equity, NAMI Chicago educates to fight stigma and discrimination, fiercely advocates for our community, and shares hope, connection and expertise with people on their mental health journey. NAMI Chicago seeks to fill gaps in Chicago's mental health system, with an intentional emphasis on racial equity and breaking down barriers to care.? 

We are dedicated to the care and support of others. We must also show up with as much energy for ourselves. We lead with this priority which enables us to show up every day and share in the joy and pain of those we support. We challenge each other to live up to our values and do all that can be done to maintain our wellness and embrace the care and support we need. We will ensure that we will work with you to cross any hurdles that come your way 

NAMI Chicago is experiencing significant growth in our organization, which supports individuals, families, professionals, and community members in understanding and navigating the system of mental health services. We are seeking for students who are interested in: 

• Building relationships within the community in order to create and impact change for those whose lives are affected by mental illness; 
• Getting exposure to macro-level challenges and opportunities in Chicago's mental health system and systems-level thinking to address gaps; 
• Gaining an understanding of the unique systems of care available locally along with  a variety of funding mechanisms and many providers; 
• Learning about the recovery model and how the model can be used broadly within the mental health system; and 
• Understanding the distinct roles the city, county, and state play in the provision of mental health services and support. 

Responsibilities: 

• Support the development of position papers on topics relevant to NAMI Chicago’s policy agenda 
• Conduct policy analysis related to city, county, state and federal mental health policy 
• Assist in the preparation of NAMI Chicago’s weekly internal policy newsletter 
• Attend community and stakeholder meetings where NAMI Chicago is representing our policy agenda 
• Collaborates across the organization to help with activities involving education, advocacy, support, and engagement 
• Support NAMI Chicago’s grassroots advocacy engagement 
• Other duties as assigned by the Sr. Director of Policy 

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Demonstrates commitment to serving underrepresented and vulnerable populations, including social and racial/ethnic minorities as well as those living with mental illnesses and/or substance use disorders 
• Demonstrates strong verbal and written communication skills 
• Willing to work in a diverse environment regarding race, ethnicity, culture, sexual orientation and gender 
• Ability to work independently and respond to direction with the highest level of professionalism 

Requirements

• Currently enrolled at an accredited institute of higher education, preferably pursuing a degree in public policy, political science, or other social science field 
• Must be able to commit to at least 16 hours per week 
• Experience or interest in policy analysis 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office 

The anticipated timeframe for this position will be the Summer or Fall 2025 and will require a commitment of at least 16 hours per week. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. This position will be unpaid. NAMI Chicago is an equal opportunity employer.