Intern, Advocacy and Public Policy

American Lung Association•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The American Lung Association has an excellent opportunity for an Intern, Advocacy and Public Policy in Chicago, IL. Alongside members of the Advocacy & Public Policy team, you will join an outstanding group of professionals dedicated to our mission: to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through research, education, and advocacy. The intern will assist the American Lung Association in Illinois staff to execute Advocacy activities to gain experience in the field of public health policy at the state and local levels. This is an unpaid internship position requiring a minimum time commitment of 10 hours per week (flexible schedule) and must be eligible for course credit or fulfill an internship graduation requirement. This position is for the Spring 2026 term and must be completed by May 31, 2026.

Requirements

Must be working towards a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Non-Profit Management, Public Health, or related field
Must be eligible to receive academic credit for internship or fulfill an internship graduation requirement
Qualified candidates must be enthusiastic, reliable, and interested in developing a career in public health advocacy or non-profit management
Qualified candidates should possess strong writing skills, attention to detail, and have a keen interest in the mission of the American Lung Association
Ability to multitask, perform in a team environment, and a demonstrated willingness to learn
Ability to work independently
Computer Proficiency – Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Publisher
Ability to lift and carry 25 lbs. (supplies)
Consistent with its mission, the American Lung Association maintains a smoke-free workplace; all interns and volunteers must abstain from tobacco use in any form, including vaping

Responsibilities

Gain a basic understanding of the American Lung Association
Become knowledgeable of mission, development, and communications efforts.
Gain technical training by utilizing Microsoft Office applications and Canva.
Participate in staff meetings and learning opportunities.
Research and summarize public health facts and figures.
Assist in analyzing commercial tobacco control, air quality, healthcare access policies in the areas of protecting indoor and outdoor air quality, tobacco control funding and lung disease prevention and treatment.
Assist with identifying, scheduling and conducting outreach to legislators, legislative staff and other decision makers throughout the state of Illinois.
Assist with the development of presentations and other tailored educational materials on lung health policy topics to various community groups.
Assemble health education materials for presentations and tabling events; participate in community health events.
Help identify and recruit residents of local communities to participate in advocacy activities.
Assist with data collection for legislative fact sheets, email alerts, letters-to-the-editor and social media messaging.