Niagara Movement Foundation
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Make an Impact. Build Your Future. Serve Your Community


Are you a college student passionate about public policy, public health, or creating meaningful change in your community? The Summer Public Service Internship Program offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience working alongside leaders in local government and community organizations across Oakland, CA.

Through this program, you’ll build real-world skills, expand your professional network, and contribute to work that directly impacts the lives of Oakland residents.

This is more than a summer internship—it’s a pathway into public service. You will:

  • Gain hands-on experience in government and nonprofit settings

  • Build meaningful professional connections across Oakland

  • Strengthen your leadership and career skills

  • Contribute to building a more equitable and engaged community


What You’ll Do

As an intern, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Support public policy and community initiatives

  • Engage in research, outreach, and constituent services

  • Work with city departments, nonprofits, and civic leaders

  • Gain exposure to local government operations and decision-making

  • Contribute to projects that advance equity, health, and community development


Program Focus Areas

  • Public Policy

  • Public Health

  • Government & Civic Engagement

  • Community Development

  • Economics & Social Impact


Our Partners: Interns may be placed with organizations such as:

  • City of Oakland Departments

  • Oakland City Council & Mayor’s Office

  • Port of Oakland

  • Alameda County agencies

  • Local nonprofits and community organizations


Program Details

Duration: 8 weeks (Summer 2026)

Dates: June 15 – August 7, 2026

Location: Oakland, CA

Format: In-person/hybrid (depending on placement)

Compensation: $2,500 – $4,000 stipend (based on placement and funding) and $4,000 scholarships


Who Should Apply: We’re seeking motivated, community-minded college students eager to make an impact and grow as leaders. Ideal candidates are:

  • Currently enrolled in a college, university, or community college

  • Maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA

  • Studying—or have a demonstrated interest in—fields such as:

    • Public Policy

    • Public Health

    • Political Science

    • Sociology

    • Economics

    • Community Development

    • Or related disciplines

  • Actively engaged in community service, volunteer work, or leadership in campus or civic organizations within the past two years.

Timeline

Applications Open: Now

Application Deadline: May 7th

Interviews: May 2026

Program Dates: June 15 – August 7, 2026


Join Us: Be part of a cohort of emerging leaders committed to public service and community impact.


Application Requirements

  • Completed application form

  • A 500-word personal statement that includes:

    • Why are you interested in public service

    • How does this internship align with your goals

    • Relevant experiences or community connections

    • (Optional) One recommendation

  • Availability: Ability to commit to the full internship period ( 8 weeks during the summer).

  • Interview- finalists ( virtual)


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Major Donors

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Corporate Groups and Businesses

  • Scott's Seafood Restaurant
  • Alaska Airlines
  • California Waste Solutions
  • DOGO Corporation
  • Marina Security Services
  • Google
  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Port of Oakland

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Organizations

  • Alpha Gamma Boule Foundation
  • County of Alameda
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Center
  • NAACP Oakland

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Individuals

  • Frank Arthur
  • Zack Parker
  • Cestra Butner
  • Robert Harris
  • Shonda Scott
  • Frank White, Jr.
  • Dr. George Woods

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Friends and Partners

  • Hon. Keith Carson
  • Hon. Kevin Jenkins
  • Hon. Nate Miley


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Our Goals

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  • To develop strong leadership skills in all young people
  • To foster a sense of responsibility and connectedness to their communities
  • To encourage critical thinking and civic engagement

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  • To provide access to quality education and academic support
  • To prepare young people for success in future careers and lifelong learning

Meet Our Board of Directors

At the Niagara Movement Foundation, our services are reflections of our deep commitment to empowering and uplifting disadvantaged youth. Through youth mentoring and leadership development, we are proud to provide an inclusive space where young people can learn and grow. Get to know the board of directors advocating our cause.

Niagara Movement Foundation

Phone/Text: External link opens in new tab or window510-902-2172 | Fax I 510-340-9106 I Email: info@niagaramovementfoundation.org

4200 Park Blvd, #645, Oakland, California 94602

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