<p>Position Purpose/Summary</p> <p>Responsible for assisting the CityStart initiative, a focused effort to advance financial empowerment and wealth building in the Mason Square neighborhoods, including McKnight, Old Hill, Upper Hill, and Bay. This internship will assist with the neighborhood-based outreach, research, public engagement efforts, and community-centered planning processes to help ensure the voice of residents, are heard and reflected in strategic planning and investment initiatives. This position reports to the Project Manager Office of Planning and Economic Development and does not exercise supervision over other staff members.</p> <p>Essential Functions</p> <ul> <li>Assist with planning and facilitating community meetings, listening sessions, and public workshops. </li><li>Support outreach to residents, local businesses, and community-based organizations to gather feedback and increase participation. </li><li>Conduct surveys, interviews, or informal conversations to better understand neighborhood needs and priorities. </li><li>Help collect, organize, and analyze qualitative and quantitative data for use in neighborhood investment plans. </li><li>Collaborate with staff and partner organizations. </li><li>Contribute to communication materials (flyers, newsletters, website updates, social media posts) to promote CityStart engagement opportunities. </li><li>Document engagement efforts and contribute to written summaries and reports for internal and public use. </li><li>Other projects as deemed appropriate by Department Staff. </li></ul> <p>Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities</p> <ul> <li>Ability to research and resolve problems. </li><li>Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. </li><li>Ability to work independently and as part of a team. </li><li>Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, team-oriented environment. </li><li>Ability to work effectively with supervisors, co-workers, municipal officials, government and business officials, neighborhood organizations and the general public. </li><li>Ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook programs proficiently. </li><li>Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including cultural competency and sensitivity to diverse communities. </li></ul> <p>Education and Experience</p> <ul> <li>Current student or recent graduate in Urban Planning, Public Policy, Social Work, Communications, Community Development, or a related field. </li><li>Demonstrated interest in equity, social justice, and community empowerment. </li><li>Experience working with underrepresented populations or in community-based settings. </li><li>Familiarity with Springfield neighborhoods and local history preferred. </li><li>Bilingual or multilingual skills preferred. </li></ul>