Advocacy Intern (August Start)

AARP•Phoenix, AZ

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

AARP Arizona is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that does advocacy work on behalf of older Arizonans at the state legislature, with members of Congress, and some work at the local level. Our internship focuses on developing competent advocates and policy specialists, with the opportunity to lean into a specific area of interest for the student in political work. Students will learn how to advocate, the details of the state legislature, utilize media, understand potential tactics, influence legislators, coalition building, and more. AARP is committed to your growth and cultivating your continued learning and development. This paid internship is expected to start in August 2026 and will continue through the end of the year, with a possibility of extension for additional semesters.

Requirements

Must be enrolled in a Master of Social Work (MSW) Policy, Administration and Community Practice (PAC) degree program, and remain academically enrolled throughout the internship
Must be a self-starter and adaptable, with the ability to work under tight deadlines
Ability to manage multiple projects, anticipate project needs, and discern work priorities
Ability to work well with diverse populations, including gender, race, and sexual orientation
Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office programs & Zoom
Exceptional verbal/written communication skills
Regular and reliable job attendance
Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships
Independent judgement in evaluation options to make sound decisions

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with creating and editing videos and knowledge of multiple social media platforms is a plus

Responsibilities

Build out an issue campaign to advocate at the state legislature, which will include picking an issue of importance, following it through the state legislative process, making a direct action organizing chart, preparing relevant materials for prospective partners and legislators, and participating in mock meetings and testimony on the issue
Produce a large research project on an issue of importance to the state, reviewing legislation, drafting newsletters to activists, and participating in volunteer meetings