Communications – Outreach and Advocacy Intern

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation’s largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin.

Are you a creative, passionate, and results-driven student interested in community outreach and advocacy? Are you ready to work with one of the nation’s largest non-profits? The AARP Maine team is looking for you! You will gain valuable experience with public relations, non-partisan advocacy and elections, and community outreach projects. You will receive first-hand knowledge of how AARP, the preeminent organization fighting for older Americans, develops and conveys its message across the nation and here in Maine. Interns will also have the opportunity to work with our local teams of volunteers. Our office organizes various events and public action initiatives to improve the lives of people as they age and enhance opportunities for future generations. AARP Maine is committed to your ongoing learning and development, and we will challenge you to think and work innovatively on these real-world projects. This paid internship has an anticipated start date of Summer 2026, with an option to continue throughout the year.

• Initiate outreach strategies to engage local community partners and disseminate AARP materials and resources
• Apply strategic, analytical, and creative thinking to advance policy issues on topics such as family caregiving, health, age-friendly initiatives, and retirement security
• Work with AARP Maine staff to enhance volunteer engagement, particularly in rural areas of the state
• Engage proactively in grassroots mobilizing through innovative and self-driven approaches
• Research policy issues and draft documents to support our advocacy and outreach efforts
• Participate in team meetings and strategy discussions
• Communicate effectively with AARP members, volunteers, and community partners
• Engage in a support role for various remote and/or in-person events

• Must be enrolled in a degree program at an accredited college/university rising undergraduate juniors or seniors, graduate students, or post-doctoral students and remain academically enrolled throughout the internship or must have previously graduated from college and enrolled in a continuing education program
• Must be a self-starter and adaptable with the ability to work under tight deadlines 
• Ability to manage multiple projects, anticipate project needs, and discern work priorities
• Ability to work well with diverse populations, including gender, race, and sexual orientation
• Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office programs  
• Familiarity with creating and editing videos and knowledge of multiple social media platforms

AARP will not sponsor an employment visa for this position.

Additional Requirements

• Regular and reliable job attendance
• Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships
• Independent judgement in evaluation options to make sound decisions
• In office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively surrounded by moderate noise
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds

Hybrid Work Environment

AARP observes Mondays and Fridays as remote workdays, except for essential functions. Remote work can only be done within the United States and its territories.

Compensation and Benefits

The hourly range is $18 for undergraduates, $21 for graduate students, $28 for Ph.D. candidates. Internships are non-exempt positions and are not eligible for employee benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.