Youth Engagement Intern
About the organization: Solar United Neighbors (SUN) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to creating a clean, equitable, resilient energy system that benefits everyone. We are building a clean energy movement by helping people go solar, join together, and fight for their energy rights.
We run twelve programs: DC, MD, VA, WV, MN, OH, FL, TX, CO, IN, AZ and PA. Each state program promotes solar throughout its jurisdiction. The programs share three goals:
- Develop and scale solar energy projects within communities,
- Pass solar policies that expand the local solar market, and
- Build a community of clean energy advocates across political fault lines.
At Solar United Neighbors, we believe that all of us have a stake in a future where every community participates in the financial benefits of our energy grid’s ongoing diversification from big central plants and passive consumers to a wider mix of distributed production & renewable energy.
Our Engagement team is expanding the opportunities for youth to get involved with the solar movement. We have a short list of current offerings but we want to do more-and we need your help!
About the position:
The internship goal is to help expand awareness of Solar United Neighbors’ Youth Programs and build out additional offerings. We strive to reach more people and new populations in the community. Other goals are to contribute to your skills-bank and experience and connect you to organizations that may support your future career or interests. You will have the opportunity to build relationships with youth organizations, schools, and community based organizations.
The intern activities may include but are not limited to:
- Seek potential partners and outreach channels for our youth programs
- Research and connect with community groups, youth service organizations, and Boy & Girl Scout Troops
- Develop youth engagement activities that will be posted and promoted on our website
- Present internally and externally about current and future offerings
- Collect solar stories from youth program participants through video, photos, written word and/or site visits
The intern will be invited to attend virtual educational presentations, learn about rooftop solar, and work with staff from all 12 of our state programs.
Candidates should be comfortable working with Microsoft office, social media, Google Drive platforms. An interest or background in education, engagement, or youth oriented work a plus but not required. We’re looking for an intern who is curious, organized, upbeat to bring fresh ideas or tried and true outreach success. Strong written and verbal communication skills are a huge plus. The intern should have their own laptop computer to work on throughout the internship and access to transportation if needed for outreach.
This is a 10-20 hour (flexible) per week internship intended for Summer 2021 (May-August). We are pleased to be able to offer financial support for internships as needed. Applications must be received by April 15th in order to be eligible for funding. College-level interns may obtain college credit for this internship. At this time, all Solar United Neighbors internships are remote. We evaluate opportunities for community outreach with safety as a priority.