About 70 undergraduate, graduate and recent graduates intern in the CDF Washington, D.C. office each year and while a few of the internships give preference to certain majors everyone with a strong interest in child advocacy is encouraged to apply. CDF interns gain knowledge, skills, and experience for a lifetime commitment as a child advocate and public policy leader. They also get an insider's view of non-profit advocacy. Additionally, former interns stay active in CDF's mission through the CDF Intern Alumni Action Network. Our state and regional offices also offer internships. Interested individuals should contact each office directly for more information. Apply for an internship today.

Timeframe

Internships usually last between 8-12 weeks, but some interns stay longer or leave earlier. There are no set start or end dates to internships. Typical internship timeframes:

Housing Information

CDF is not able to provide or arrange housing to interns, but the CDF Internship Program Office can offer assistance to students interested in information about affordable housing options and locations. When searching for housing, keep in mind proximity to public transportation and neighborhood safety.

Helpful Intern Housing Websites

• Washington, D.C. Metro System
  The Children's Defense Fund is located near Union Station, serviced by the Red Line Metro Rail.
• Washington Intern Student Housing (WISH)
• Capitol Hill Stay
• The Washington Center
• Institute for Experiential Learning

Universities Offering Intern Housing

• Trinity College
• Catholic University
• George Washington University
• American University
• Howard University

Financial Support

CDF's Internships in Washington, D.C. are unpaid.

Applicants in need of financial aid to support their internship are encouraged to explore potential funding sources through the career services or alumni offices on their campus. Many colleges offer scholarships, stipends, or off-campus work-study to facilitate participation in public interest internships.  It is wise to begin your search for an internship as early as possible if finances are a concern.

Educational Programs for Interns

Educational and training programs highlight trends and issues in the child advocacy and public policy fields. These programs help CDF interns understand their role as servant leaders and advocates, and they equip interns to act in their communities after leaving CDF.

Contact Information

Internship Coordinator
Children's Defense Fund
25 E Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001

Phone: 202-662-3612
Email: cdf_interns@childrensdefense.org