4. The National Audubon Society
The National Audubon Society's Endangered Species Campaign works to harness Audubon's field and grassroots strength in pursuit of an overarching goal: a strong and fully functioning federal Endangered Species Act to protect and recover species in greatest need, coupled with on-the-ground efforts to aid both listed and declining species through the protection of key habitat and other proactive measures.
What is the Audubon Society? As an intern with the National Audubon Society Endangered Species Campaign, you will be working in the 30 person Policy Office of one of the oldest, largest, and most respected environmental organizations in the country. Founded in 1905, the National Audubon Society is named after John James Audubon (1785-1851), famed naturalist, explorer, and wildlife artist. The mission of the National Audubon Society is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats, for the benefit of humanity and the earth's biological diversity. We have over 550,000 members, organized into 518 chapters throughout the Americas. We believe our grassroots activists are the best and most respected of any environmental organization.
What Can You Gain From An Internship? Interns gain a unique insider's look at how our government works,
who the key players are and what options exist for creating real political pressure for environmental protection.
Activities include lobbying trips, attending congressional hearings and congressional sessions, strategizing with
other environmental groups and activists, and creating policy briefs. Interns are also given the opportunity to
become involved with grassroots activism through such activities as creating fact sheets, action alerts, and press
releases and convincing Audubon Chapters to take action on significant endangered species issues.
What Issues Does the Endangered Species Campaign Address? The Endangered Species Campaign engages the Endangered
Species Act at both the federal and local levels. On the national level, the Campaign focuses on the reauthorization
of the Endangered Species Act, on encouraging strong and protective national endangered species policies, and on
funding for the full implementation of the ESA. In addition, we are working to identify and promote workable solutions
to problems with the implementation of the ESA. On the grassroots level, the Campaign works with our state offices,
with our more than 500 chapters, and with individual activists to respond to national issues and policies. Perhaps
most importantly, we work to encourage better on-the-ground implementation of the ESA, focusing on reform of the
rapidly growing Habitat Conservation Plan program.
How to Apply: Internships are full-time, but are flexible for interns who may have to work part time or take classes during their internship. Although internships are unpaid, course credit can be arranged. Upper class college students or graduates are preferred and a sincere interest in restoring and protecting our environment, strong verbal and written skills, and a good sense of humor are essential. To apply send a resume, writing sample, and cover letter detailing your interests, goals, and dates available to:
Liz Pomper
Endangered Species Campaign Assistant
National Audubon Society
1901 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Suite 1100
Washington, DC 20006
(202) 861-2242 x3037, fax 861-4290
epomper@audubon.org