Community Organization Intern
Host Company:
OPEN Shoreditch
Location:
Dates of Internship:
June 11 - August 3, 2012
Language Level:
n/a
Internship Description:
OPEN Shoreditch is a two-year old voluntary collaboration of local residents and organizations committed to ensure that development proposals in and around Shoreditch/Bishopsgate enhance the area and provide significant environmental and community benefits. In particular, it campaigns for a cohesive master plan for the area with full engagement of all sectors of the community in the planning process.
The Shoreditch area in east London is one of the world’s fastest growing media, cultural and artistic centers. This dynamic area abounds with galleries, studios, music makers, film and TV figures, media companies, fashion markets and nightlife. It is an area with a rich history that today is home to a wide ethnic mix. However, Shoreditch is in a part of London that is one of the most socially disadvantaged in Europe. Rates of unemployment, ill-health and poverty are very high. In contrast, the neighboring City of London has the highest earnings per capita in Europe. Its attempts to expand into Shoreditch by regenerating one of the biggest and most exciting development sites in Europe – Bishopsgate Goodsyard – provide a threat but also opportunities to create a healthier, wealthier and more cohesive community.
Lead members of OPEN Shoreditch are professionals in various fields: law, journalism, regeneration, marketing and communications, the arts and education, and the public sector, as well as experienced community activists.
Skill & Experience Required:
Candidates should be from communications, journalism, public relations or community/public policy backgrounds. And they should have a strong or developing interest in using online/digital communications/social networking tools to inform, inspire and generate OPEN Shoreditch audiences, stakeholders and networks. Candidates should possess strong organizational capability and excellent verbal and written skills. Candidates should be keen to learn about the Shoreditch area and the London political scene and assist in organizing a wide range of events and other interventions to promote the objectives of OPEN Shoreditch. The post requires a confident individual who understands the nature of community groups and is prepared to show initiative and quickly make the role their own.
Sample Projects:
- Administration: Setting up membership and supporters databases, online newsletter production and organizing meetings.
- Online Communications: Setting up and promoting online social networks.
- Training: in use of blogs, content managed websites, databases for mail merges, etc.
Benefits for Intern:
This is a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of progressive community development and negotiations in one of the most sought-after locations in Europe. Political astuteness and a passion for communications will be rewarded by contact with some of the leading regeneration practitioners and community representatives in one of the biggest and most controversial urban developments.
Benefits for Company:
OPEN Shoreditch will gain from the talent and enthusiasm of the right intern. That intern will set up good processes and administration with the goal of improved and effective online communications.
Placement Functions:
