by Maya Harris
Last November, I contacted RCF in my search for an internship for my Student Originated Studies program at The Evergreen State College (TESC). I was interested in learning how a non-profit functions and benefits its community, and of all of the organizations I researched, I was most drawn to the Rachel Corrie Foundation by the passion and care of its staff. With that, I became the Community Development and Educational Outreach Intern for RCF’s upcoming Peace Works conference: Solidarity in Action.
During my two quarter internship, I was able to build strong and diverse relationships with communities ranging from Vancouver BC to Berkeley, California. I developed my outreach skills by organizing interviews, recording Public Service Announcements, and communicating with students all over the nation. I also worked with local high schools to bring guest speakers to discuss the Israel/Palestine conflict with the students.
In the final weeks of my internship I was given the unique opportunity to attend the Move Over AIPAC Conference in Washington, DC with other RCF staff and board members.
At RCF I was able to collaborate and build lasting friendships with many people. I worked closely with TESC work-study intern, Kyra Bottoms, Community Development intern, Zora Djenonan, and Peace Works Documentation intern, Elizabeth Moore. With all of these positions, work can range from tabling public events to meeting well-known speakers like Sharif Abdel Kouddous!
My time at RCF helped me grow and develop skills I will use in my life’s work. With these relationships, I’ve built a network base that will continue beyond my time at RCF. I cannot wait to reunite with the RCF community when I return to Evergreen next fall!
Interning with RCF provides a variety of work options that will fit your personal needs and interests. Upcoming Fall 2011 internships include congressional advocacy, working on BDS in partnership with TESC Divest, and events planning.
For more internship information, call (360) 754 3998.
