Office of Father and Paternal Engagement

We are now accepting internship applications

The MDHHS mission is to provide opportunities, services, and programs that promote a healthy, safe, and stable environment for residents to be self-sufficient. We are committed to ensuring a diverse workforce and a work environment whereby all employees are treated with dignity, respect and fairness. For more information, please visit MDHHS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Plan.

Location: 51111 Woodward Ave. 4th Floor, Pontiac, MI 48342

Must be willing to intern 6-10 hours a week

• Develop posts, graphics, and short videos for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Linked In, and X (Twitter).
• Create culturally relevant and father-friendly messaging that aligns with program goals.
• Respond to comments and messages professionally.
• Promote events, workshops, and success stories to increase participation.
• Assist in planning and executing social media campaigns for initiatives like iCare4
  
  Children and Men of Color.
• Track engagement metrics (likes, shares, comments) and prepare simple reports.
• Ensure tone, visuals, and messaging align with organizational guidelines.
• Research grant opportunities (federal, state, private foundations).
• Assist in drafting proposals, budgets, and narratives.
• Collect data and success stories for grant applications.
• Review compliance requirements and deadlines.
• Assist with program planning and outreach for father engagement and Men of Color initiatives.
• Support community events, workshops, and family engagement activities.
• Grant Writing Assistance:
  Research funding opportunities, draft proposal sections, and compile supporting materials.
• Social Media Management:
  Create and schedule posts, monitor engagement, and maintain consistent branding.
• Collect and organize data for program evaluation and reporting.
• Collaborate with staff on special projects and initiatives.

We are seeking a motivated college intern to support programs that strengthen father involvement, promote child well‑being, and empower men of color through community engagement and advocacy. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in social services, program development, and outreach.

• Type:
  Unpaid Internship
• Location:
  
  Pontiac, MI (Hybrid options may be available)
• Schedule:
  
  Flexible; approximately 06-10 hours per week
• Duration:
  Semester-based or as agreed
• Preferred Education:
  
  Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Social Work, Human Services, Child Development, Sociology, Public Policy, Communications, or related fields.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work with diverse communities and maintain cultural sensitivity.
• Organizational and time management skills.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office and social media platforms.
• Familiarity with Canva, Hootsuite, or grant databases (preferred but not required).

• Gain practical experience in community engagement, program development, and advocacy.
• Build skills in grant writing and social media strategy.
• Network with professionals in social services and public policy.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in fatherhood and child well‑being initiatives.

• Father Engagement & Cultural Competence:
  Understanding of family dynamics and ability to work with diverse communities.
• Communication:
  Strong written and verbal skills; comfortable engaging with families and community partners.
• Organization & Outreach:
  Ability to assist with event planning, program coordination, and community engagement.
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office and social media platforms.

• Grant Writing Assistance:
  Research funding opportunities, draft proposal sections, and compile supporting materials.
• Social Media Management:
  Create and schedule posts, monitor engagement, and maintain consistent branding.
• Familiarity with tools like Canva, Hootsuite, or grant databases is a plus.

• Must be actively enrolled in a college and university.
• Must provide a copy of the academic institution’s Internship Agreement outlining internship objectives and academic instructor’s name and telephone number.

For questions regarding this internship, please contact Samantha Ruhl at RuhlS.

MDHHS is proud to be a Michigan Veteran’s Affairs Agency (MVAA) Gold Level Veteran-Friendly Employer.