Research and Writing Intern

Beyond is seeking a Research and Writing Intern with genuine interest in connecting the law with grassroots activism and being part of a new legal services model to join our Development Team. The intern would play a key role in assisting our grant writing, research, communications, and broader development work at a leading legal aid organization in Chicago.

The ideal candidate must be able to manage tasks efficiently; be naturally resourceful, be detail-oriented, flexible, organized, and self-motivated with strong initiative; have a positive attitude; edit their work carefully, and have a professional demeanor. Candidates must be comfortable working independently in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will have an understanding of non-profit work, interest in law (specifically immigration, housing, or family law), and a culturally-sensitive approach to storytelling. Intern responsibilities will include but are not limited to the following:

• Research grant and funding opportunities for the organization;

• Assisting the development team with grant writing applications and reports;

• Assembling various documents for grant applications;

• Liaise with other departments as needed to showcase Beyond’s work with our community partners and members; and

• Other development tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

REQUIRED

• Excellent writing abilities, preferably expository style;

• Experience completing research projects;

• General understanding and/or interest in fundraising or grant writing;

• Well organized, with the ability to thoroughly track details; and

• Excellent communication skills, and can work in a self-directed manner and with colleagues
 

Desired Hours per Week 

  10-15 hours.
 

Timeframe 

We aim to have the candidate start by January 22 or 29 for a 3 or 6-month appointment.

Location 

Hybrid; Beyond operates 4 days a week from home and in-office on Wednesdays. We are happy to be flexible given semester/class commitments, but the ideal candidate would be able to join us in-office on Wednesdays.
 

Further Details and Compensation

Beyond is an equal opportunity workplace and is committed to working closely and effectively with the communities that we serve. Individuals self-identifying as people of color, LGBTQIA+, socio- economically diverse, persons with a disability, or as otherwise having backgrounds and experiences underrepresented in the legal profession are highly encouraged to apply.

This position is non-paid and the selected candidate would need to provide their own laptop. Beyond will provide access to programs necessary for this role including but not limited to google suite, Nitro, and Canva. The selected candidate will have access to several benefits and opportunities including but not limited to:

• Free access for the Intern and a guest to Beyond’s annual Gala in October;

• An excellent letter of recommendation assuming sufficient performance;

• Access to Beyond events such as employee outings and trips;

• Supervision and professional development opportunities;

• Lunches with supervisors and staff; and

• Vintage Beyond apparel.

Application Instructions

To development@beyondlegalaid.org, please send:

1) a cover letter;

2) resume; and

3) two recent writing samples (3-page minimum each)

We will accept applications until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates will be expected to provide two professional references from supervisors (this can include faculty) during the final interview stage. Interviews will be conducted in January 2025.