Apply your passion for advocacy and policy with the Sitka Conservation Society (SCS) and Sustainable Southeast Partnership (SSP) this summer! As the Conservation & Community Development Policy Intern, you will learn about a multitude of different ways to engage in policy and advocacy work while advancing joint policy goals of SCS and SSP related to enhancing community resilience and protecting the natural environment of Southeast Alaska. The Sitka Conservation Society works at the intersection of conservation and community development, deploying projects and programs that serve community needs while engaging in policy and advocacy to create long-term systems change for sustainability outcomes in Southeast Alaska and on the Tongass National Forest. Their policy and advocacy work is driven by community voices and priorities and seeks to increase the ability of local residents and communities to access and engage in public processes that impact management of local resources and landscapes. Much of their policy work is done in partnership with entities belonging to SSP, a dynamic collective impact network made up of Tribes, Alaska Native Corporations, businesses, non-profits, and individuals across the region that are committed to pursuing cultural, ecological, and economic resiliency for communities in Southeast Alaska.

This internship will involve collaboration with SSP members and communities to explore policy and advocacy avenues to support the development of the Tongass National Forest Land Management Revision Plan, with research, analysis, and communication outputs focusing on natural resource conservation, community development, renewable energy, climate change, workforce development, subsistence harvesting and policy, and cultural use wood management policy.  

The specific projects of this internship will be co-developed based on the skills, interest, and proficiencies of the intern. Expected activities include: developing skillset in civic engagement; researching, analyzing, and writing policy briefs and talking points about relevant legislation or regulations; engaging with Congressional staff to provide input on legislative proposals and engaging stakeholders and organizations to take action in policy processes. The overarching goals are to learn different ways to engage in policy and advocacy work while advancing joint policy goals of SCS and SSP related to enhancing community resilience and protecting the natural environment of Southeast Alaska.

Applicants from rural Southeast Alaskan communities are encouraged to apply. Multiple types of experiences, knowledge sets, backgrounds, and skills will be considered when reviewing applicants beyond traditional academic achievements.

This internship can take place remotely from a community within Southeast Alaska, but it is preferred that the intern be in Sitka, AK. There will likely be work travel to remote Southeast Alaska communities during the summer, and a potential to help staff congressional engagement trips.

Learn more and apply here.