College Internship – Legislative & Public Policy

Position Overview

The Virginia Victim Assistance Network (VVAN) is seeking a motivated college student for a Legislative & Public Policy Internship. This internship offers students an opportunity to learn about Virginia's legislative process, public policy, advocacy, and issues affecting victims of crime and the victim services field.

Working with VVAN staff, the intern will assist with research, legislative monitoring, policy analysis, and preparation of materials related to state legislation and public policy affecting victims, victim assistance programs, and the criminal justice system.

Responsibilities

• Monitor Virginia legislative activity during the General Assembly session.
• Track bills and legislative issues relevant to victims of crime, victim services, and the criminal justice system.
• Conduct research on proposed legislation, regulations, and public policy issues.
• Assist with reviewing and summarizing legislation.
• Research current laws, policies, and legislative history.
• Assist with preparing legislative updates, talking points, fact sheets, and other policy materials.
• Help organize and maintain legislative tracking information.
• Research policy issues and emerging trends affecting victim services in Virginia.
• Assist with gathering information from state agencies, legislative resources, and other reliable sources.
• Support VVAN's legislative and public policy initiatives.
• Assist with preparing materials for meetings, presentations, and advocacy efforts.
• Perform other research and policy-related projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a college or university program in political science, public policy, government, public administration, criminal justice, law, social sciences, communications, or a related field.
• Strong research and writing skills.
• Interest in Virginia government, public policy, the legislative process, criminal justice, or victim services.
• Ability to read and understand legislative and policy materials.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
• Familiarity with the Virginia General Assembly and legislative process is helpful but not required.

What You'll Gain

This internship provides practical experience in:

• Virginia's legislative process
• Legislative research and bill tracking
• Public policy analysis
• Nonprofit advocacy
• Criminal justice policy
• Victim services policy
• Professional research and writing
• Preparing policy briefs and legislative materials
• Working with a statewide nonprofit organization

Internship Details

Location: Remote

Schedule: Flexible; coordinated around the student's academic schedule

Hours: To be determined based on academic requirements and availability

NOTE: This is a behind-the-scenes internship. Interns will not provide direct services to victims or respond to victim assistance inquiries.

How to Apply

Interested students should submit a resume and cover letter to angie.haynie@vanetwork.org.