Office of Father and Paternal Engagement

Internship Opportunity

We are now accepting internship applications for a position with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). 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.

Location:

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

Must be willing to intern 6-10 hours a week

• Content Creation:
  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.
• Community Engagement:
  Respond to comments and messages professionally. Promote events, workshops, and success stories to increase participation.
• Campaign Support:
  Assist in planning and executing social media campaigns for initiatives like iCare4
  
  Children and Men of Color.
• Analytics:
  Track engagement metrics (likes, shares, comments) and prepare simple reports.
• Brand Consistency:
  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.

Responsibilities:

• 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.

At the time of internship, must be currently pursuing or holding a degree in fields such as Social Work, Human Services, Education, Child Development, Sociology, Public Policy, or Non-Profit Management.

About the Internship:
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.

Position Details

• 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.

For questions regarding this internship, please contact Samantha Ruhl HS is proud to be a Michigan Veteran's Affairs Agency (MVAA) Gold Level Veteran-Friendly Employer.

Accommodations:
If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or selection processes, please contact the ADA coordinator.

State of Michigan unpaid Intern positions do not include a comprehensive benefits plan.