Writing/Media Internship Washington, D.C., Fall 2009
- Posted 07/06/2009 Open Until Filled

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Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) is the nation's leading advocate for trails and the only national organization devoted to converting unused railroad corridors into multi-use trails. Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is dedicated to connecting people and communities by creating a nationwide network of public trails. RTC is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with regional offices in California, Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

About Our Internship Program:
RTC is a nonprofit public charity carrying out a program of technical assistance and public education. RTC is looking for interns interested in working on environmental and public policy issues. Job assignments will consist of professional and administrative support. Interns will participate as full-time staff members, including attending staff meetings, retreats and social gatherings. Hours are flexible to accommodate class schedule(s) or other commitments.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is seeking a Writing/Media Intern with excellent research and writing skills to support the Manger of Communications and Communications Department.
The intern's responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: Researching and writing articles for Web site publication; interviewing staff and sources for articles, including possibility of stories for Rails to Trails. RTC's quarterly magazine; drafting press releases to help promote RTC events and promotions; copyediting articles, releases and reports; distribution of releases through media database; and other communications duties as assigned. 

To qualify for this position:
A Junior or Senior currently in undergraduate study (graduate students also encouraged to apply) seeking a Communications degree (a public relations and/or new writing focus a plus); previous internship experience given preference; strong research abilities; attention to detail; interest in outdoor sports and activities; self-motivated; proficiency with Microsoft Office applications; excellent oral, written, proofreading and interpersonal communication skills; high level of professionalism to work independently and as a team player; ability to learn quickly and continuously; and acute knowledge of AP Style.
RTC operates off a PC/Microsoft Office platform, and experience in Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Outlook is expected. Applicants should be task-oriented, highly organized and possess a strong interest in environmental issues or related studies including trail development.

Benefits: 
Positions are generally unpaid, though interns will enjoy the benefits of working in downtown Washington, D.C., in the casual but professional RTC national office. Easily accessible by the Metro on the red, orange and blue lines, the office is located in the heart of the West End, nearly equidistant between the Foggy Bottom and Dupont Circle stations. Nearby cultural attractions include the Smithsonian, historical monuments, and the trendy Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan neighborhoods.

To Apply:
Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume indicating an internship preference (e.g. Communications, Program, Development) to:

Attn: Elton A. Clark
Human Resource Manager
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
2121 Ward Ct. NW
5th Floor
Washington, DC 20037
Phone: 202.974.5153
Email: elton@railtrails.org
Fax: 202.223.9257

RTC is an equal opportunity employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.