Networking Forum

On the Federal level, internships are available in all Federal agencies ranging from Agriculture to Veterans Affairs as well as multi-year internships/fellowships in specific topical areas in the new Administration as either a White House Intern or Fellow. Information on these options are routinely listed on the whitehouse.gov website.

The two single largest Programs of the Federal government for community service are Americorp and the Peace Corp. Americorp was begun in the 1990's by then President Clinton, providing service to depressed communities in the U.S. and the Peace Corp provides assignments both domestically and in foreign countries. Customarily, the assignments for each are 18-24 months but generlly include some stipend and quite often college credits as well via the internet while participating.

The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy's (ODEP) page at dol.gov is a good place to start for an explanation of the internship/fellowship options they support. Individuals can also contact the Headquarters Personnell Department in Washington, DC for the Federal agency in which they may be interested in. serving to inquire of 2009 Summer Internships.

For individuals seeking to add construction trades experience to their resumes, local chapters of Habitat for Humanity rebuilds housing in communities throughout the year and is always looking for individuals to aide in the renovation of existing housing or construction of new houses for families in need. A check of the White Pages in a specific area or a call to the local Housing Authority or local Federal Department of Housing Urban Development (HUD) Office can generally place an individual in contact with these Programs.

--Likewise, with the new Administration's focus on infrastructure, there will likely be a call for tradesman in a variety of construction related positions. A check with a local Trades Union Hall can determine if apprenticeships will be offered to individuals desiring to become carpenters, plumbers, laborers, painters, etc. This information is also available from a State's Work Force Development agency or area Vocational-Technical School.

Local Nursing Homes, Aging Centers, Youth Service Programs and Hospice Programs are always seeking volunteers to aide in their work to these populations. Generally, the local Program will have a Volunteer Coordinator who is always happy to hear from perspective volunteers.

Finally, 2009 is an off-year in the Election Cycle however, 18 Governors, a myriad of State Legislators, County and local officials ranging from Mayors to Council Representatives will need volunteer staff to aide in their campaigns for their respective Primaries and General Elections. If someone has ever been interested in becoming involved on the "grass roots" level in political campaigning, this is the place to get one's feet wet.