The Intern will support all aspects of the organization’s policy and systems change advocacy work. This internship is an excellent opportunity to be involved in the formation of policy and systems change positions for the organization as well as the advocacy that is required to influence funding, regulatory and administrative systems that are integral to housing and services. The Intern will build skills in policy research, legislative process, coalition organizing, and individual engagement and will gain exposure at local, state and federal levels.
Background.
CommonBond Communities is a non-profit developer, owner and social service provider founded in 1971 with the intent to use housing as a tool to positively impact individual's’ lives while simultaneously working to make our cities more just places. The organization stewards over 7,000 affordable rental and permanent supportive homes in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and South Dakota. CommonBond recognizes that it can have significant influence beyond its own ability to produce housing and provide services to residents. Policy and system change advocacy is an important strategy for CommonBond and a major focus for 2026. CommonBond will hire a part-time Intern to assist in this work.
Purpose
The Policy and Advocacy Coordinator Intern support CommonBond Communities’ policy and systems change advocacy efforts, with a focus on affordable housing and supportive services. This role provides hands-on experience in nonprofit advocacy, legislative tracking, coalition engagement, and internal communications. The Intern will gain exposure to local, state and federal policymaking processes and develop skills in policy research, advocacy strategy, and stakeholder engagement.
Activities of the Policy and Advocacy Coordinator Internship
- Internal work on policy and advocacy
- Attend and support the Policy and systems change committee, which sets priorities and carries out the 2026 work plan.
- Assist with monthly CommonBond Advocacy Responders (CAR) employee meetings.
- Draft internal communications to staff about key policy issues and CommonBond’s positions.
- Coalition Engagement
- Monitor activities of coalitions such as Minnesota Housing Stability Coalition, Housing Partnership Network, Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future, and NNA.
- Attend select coalition meetings and prepare briefing materials for CommonBond staff.
- State and Federal Policy Support
- Maintain and update policy trackers, lawmakers, and property lists.
- Conduct position research on lawmakers
- Prepare for lawmaker communications and visits
- Track coalition activity and identify engagement opportunities aligned with organizational priorities.
- Assist in preparing staff for public hearings, lawmaker meetings, and other advocacy opportunities.
Deliverables/Products of the Coordinator Intern
- Maintain and update policy trackers, lawmakers, and property lists.
- Research and prepare summaries and briefing materials on priority legislation and policymakers.
- Create meeting materials, summaries, talking points, and internal communications to support advocacy activities.
- Updates on coalition activity for staff, board and other users to remain up to date.
Terms of the Policy and Advocacy Coordinator Internship
- The Intern will bring strong personal interest, a professional, educational or lived-experience connection to our work.
- Some work may be conducted outside of business hours, but most meetings will be between the hours of 8-5 Monday-Friday.
- This is a paid internship.
- The internship will begin as soon as a candidate is selected and will conclude in June 2026.
Minimum Requirements
- Strong interest in affordable housing, social justice, and policy advocacy.
- Coursework or experience in fields relating to this work; public policy, political science, social work, urban planning, nonprofit management, or related fields.
- Excellent research, writing, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Access to the internet and ability to work remotely.
