Internship and Volunteer Program
The CAIR-STL Internship & Volunteer Program
As an organization, we believe that the best way to secure a better future for all of us is to empower young Americans with the skills they need to make a difference. There is no better teacher than experience. Interns and volunteers at CAIR-STL work with leaders on substantive projects that lay the foundation for a fair and more inclusive America. They develop professional skills, gain insight into the societal impact of public service, and have the opportunity to work with different departments so they might holistically understand the daily operations of a non-profit civil rights organization.
Why join CAIR-STL?
CAIR-STL has a wide array of projects and activities to suit your level of expertise and will empower you to make a difference! Opportunities are available throughout the year for all students to apply--full-time or part-time, undergraduate or graduate, all majors, and even high school students. Interns can earn academic credit or community service hours, or simply enrich their experience and insight to advocacy and civil rights efforts.
We offer internships in the following departments: civil rights, government affairs, Islamophobia watch, local outreach, events, and IT.
Application guidelines
A complete application must include all of the following:
- An application form, signed and dated with all spaces completed with the most updated information and truthful responses.
- A cover letter that specifies the position and session (i.e., winter-spring, summer, or fall) you're applying for, as well as your interests and qualifications. Applicants must clearly indicate which internship position they are applying for in the cover letter. Applications that do not state this information may not be processed.
- A resume that lists your most relevant and updated profile and contact information; and
- (Optional): Samples of your work. Departments may require you to submit at least one of the following samples:
- Writing sample: This could be a drafted legal document, press release, blog, or previously submitted essay or writing assignment you've written that reflects civil rights and advocacy issues as they pertains to CAIR scope. If none of the above are available, an original essay will also be considered. [maximum length: 5 pages; if longer, please select an excerpt].
- (Optional): Portfolio (for graphic design applicants): a display of completed works displaying skills, interests and unique creative perspective.
Note: All your documents should be submitted electronically via email to faizan@cair-stlouis.com and not sent by postal mail. This helps us save paper.
All interns are subject to the applicable CAIR employee rules. All interns are subject to a criminal background check. All internships are unpaid.
Academic credit and community service hours
Interns may receive academic credit or community service hours if arrangements are made between CAIR and the intern's school. It is the student's responsibility to research the requirements, work with the supervising director to tailor the internship, and ensure that appropriate forms are completed if they wish to receive academic credits from their respective institutions.
Timeline and minimum expectations
CAIR-STL internship and externship program is open throughout the year, offering a variety of specialties to cultivate young professionals and activists. Considering high school and college academic calendars, each sessison generally runs between the following months, though this may be adjusted depending on your availability:
- Winter/spring: January - May (Suggested deadline: December 15)
- Summer: May - September (Suggested deadline: April 15)
- Fall: September - December (Suggested deadline: August 15)
Due to the high volume of applicants, it is recommended that you send in your application as soon as possible.
Selection process
Applicants should be contacted within five (5) business days of sending their complete applications. If an applicant is identified as a viable candidate for the program, an interview is scheduled. Candidates may be asked for additional documents to complement their applications prior to their interview.
Scheduling requirements
Internships are offered throughout the year, and can be arranged to accommodate academic schedules based on the student's availability. Internships are approximately 10 weeks long but can be longer depending on the intern's availability. Part-time interns are expected to come in between 1-3 days a week and work a minimum of 10 to 12 hours. Please include your availability in your cover letter.
Individuals who are selected but are available to complete less than the required hours stated above will be invited to join CAIR-STL volunteer network.
Questions or concerns
For general inquiries, email or contact, CAIR-STL Executive Director, at faizan@cair-stlouis.com.
