Maryland Hunger Solutions seeking SNAP Outreach Intern

About Maryland Hunger Solutions:
Maryland Hunger Solutions (MDHS) is the leading statewide anti-hunger organization in Maryland, established by the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) as a project to fight hunger and improve the nutrition, health, and well-being of children and families in Maryland. The initiative was launched in the fall of 2007 and is modeled on the successful D.C. Hunger Solutions (DCHS) Initiative that began in 2002.

Maryland Hunger Solutions uses a three-pronged strategy to overcome barriers and create self-sustaining connections between Maryland residents and nutritious foods. Maryland Hunger Solutions works with state and community partners to:

• Maximize participation in all federal nutrition programs through a combination of removal of obstacles to participation, close work with social service agencies and outreach.
• Educate the public and key stakeholders both to the stark reality of hunger’s existence in Maryland and to solutions that are already at hand.
• Improve public policies to end hunger, reduce poverty, and promote nutrition.

 

Fall SNAP Outreach Internship:

 

As part of its strategy to increase participation in and remove obstacles to participation in federal nutrition programs, MDHS is seeking a fall SNAP Outreach Assistance Intern to work 15-20 hours per week.  The intern will be responsible for assisting in the creation and implementation of a sustainable SNAP (Food Stamps) outreach model in key locations in the state of Maryland.   Target populations include seniors and Spanish-speaking people. 

 

Based in Baltimore, the intern will work in various communities across the state.  This is an opportunity to refine communications skills, learn more about the federal nutrition programs (especially Food Stamps), and gain professional experience in the fields of public health and community development.

 

Responsibilities include:

§  Developing and editing materials for outreach

§  Making contact and developing relationships with community leaders to be able to engage in effective outreach

§  Recruiting and managing volunteers for outreach projects

§  Assisting supervisor with outreach

§  Conducting outreach independently

§  Identifying appropriate opportunities for outreach

§  Making presentations at community centers, senior centers, and other appropriate locations for SNAP outreach

§  Keeping track of outreach activities for record-keeping

§  Client case management and follow-up

§  Attending meetings with state officials

§  Writing for a monthly newsletter

§  Other duties as assigned

 

Qualifications for the job:

§  Friendly, outgoing personality and pro-active attitude

§  Basic knowledge and understanding of SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps)

§  Interest in health and nutrition, poverty, and/or public policy

§  Excellent interpersonal skills

§  Ability to maintain professional courtesy and diplomacy

§  Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and to prioritize activities

§  Ability to work independently and as part of a team

§  Must have own transportation to and from Baltimore and Prince George’s, Montgomery, and Anne Arundel Counties

§  Problem-solving skills are a must

§  Previous experience working with low-income populations is desirable

§  Experience working with seniors and/or Spanish-speaking people is desirable

§  Spanish, Chinese, and/or Vietnamese language skills are a plus

 

To apply, e-mail a cover letter and resume to Anita Wahi by Sept. 3 (awahi@mdhungersolutions.org).