St. Louis Peacebuilding Intern

Summary of Principal Responsibilities

Saint Louis’ Healing Justice Program organizes Black youth to develop and advocate for alternatives to policing in our region. Through community organizing, coalition building, and research, Saint Louis’ Healing Justice Program builds toward a world where local high schools and universities center real student safety: increased access to mental health resources, funding for educators, and improved school conditions as alternatives to carceral practices.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities: 

Programming 

1. Supporting the staff in supporting youth in schools through Peer Mediation programming.
2. Assist in developing and maintaining website and social media presence as part of broader digital strategy.
3. Actively seek opportunities to collaborate with community-based organizations and groups, institutions, etc. that will expand the reach and maximize the effectiveness of the program.

Operations

1. Participate, where appropriate, in AFSC-related collaborative projects and campaigns, including AFSC Youth Network, Community Safety Beyond Policing, and the Healing Justice Network.

Minimum Qualifications

Experience: 

1. Demonstrated commitment to power building and youth organizing. Examples may include but are not limited to the following:
   1. Served as an active participant in protest movements. 
   2. Engaged in community leadership and mentoring.
   3. Participated in or led student groups at the high school or collegiate level and/or 
   4. Excelled in a field of study related to movement building e.g. Black or Africana Studies, Women and Gender Studies, Queer Studies, Ethnic Studies, Third World Studies, etc.
2. Working knowledge or willingness to learn Microsoft Office.
3. Established commitment or willingness to engage a politic of abolition.
4. Knowledge of and experience with youth issues affecting Black youth in St. Louis.
5. Experience and passion for serving as a mentor to youth of color, Black youth in particular. 

Other Required Skills and Abilities:

1.  Understanding of and compatibility with the principles and philosophy of the American Friends Service Committee including non-violence and the belief in the intrinsic worth of every individual.
2. Practice healing and people-centered communication and be committed to building healthy relationships with staff, youth, and community members.  
3. Excellent time management skills.
4. Ability to communicate promptly and effectively via email, telephone, and text messaging. 
5. Initiative, creativity, drive, energy, and a sense of humor.