Purpose
The Community Justice Intern or Practicum Student will work alongside Empower Missouri’s Criminal Justice Policy Managers to support efforts to advance fair and equitable criminal justice policies across the state. Our work focuses on reducing mass incarceration, addressing racial disparities in the criminal legal system, and promoting approaches to public safety that strengthen communities rather than relying on punishment.
In this role, you’ll be part of advocacy campaigns, public education efforts, coalition-building, and policy research that help move meaningful change at both the state and local level. It’s a strong fit for someone who wants hands-on experience in public policy, criminal legal system reform, and grassroots advocacy.
What You’ll Do
- Connect with community members and help grow the Community Justice Coalition
- Write policy briefs on criminal legal system issues
- Support policy research on other anti-poverty issues as needed
- Help prepare and submit testimony and attend hearings at the Missouri State Capitol
- Track legislation and monitor hearings in the Missouri House and Senate, sharing updates with partners
- Take notes and help summarize key developments from Capitol activity
- Create fact sheets and other materials on priority issues
- Support coalition meetings, including note-taking and follow-up
What We’re Looking For
- A basic understanding of the criminal legal system, especially in Missouri
- A commitment to criminal legal system reform + Empower Missouri’s mission and values.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
- Solid organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks
Time Commitment
- 15 hours per week (flexible schedule).
- Availability for some meetings between 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- This is a remote position open to candidates located in Missouri, with occasional travel to support in-person events or advocacy efforts in Mid-Missouri and the state capitol.
We are happy to work with students to make sure this fits practicum or field placement requirements.
Compensation
- $15.00/hour
Reports To
- Criminal Justice Policy Manager
HOW TO APPLY
Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to [email protected]. Be sure to include “Community Justice Intern or Practicum Student” in the subject line.
Applications are due by November 20, 2026. The internship will start in January 2027 and run through May 2027.
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