About This Opportunity
The City of South Bend Human Rights Commission Intern is a motivated, values-driven college student with a genuine commitment to civil rights, social justice, and public service. They bring intellectual curiosity and a strong sense of purpose to their work, approaching each assignment with attention to detail, ethical integrity, and a desire to make a meaningful difference in the South Bend community. Through hands-on experience in human rights advocacy, community engagement, and public policy research, the intern contributes directly to the Commission's mission of eliminating discrimination and promoting equal opportunity for all residents.
Time Commitment: 25 – 30 hours per week
Duration: 12 – 16 weeks (flexible based on academic calendar or availability)
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements list below are representative of the knowledge, education, skills and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Essential Duties:
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Assist with the screening and documentation of discrimination complaints, gaining firsthand exposure to civil rights processes and procedures
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Support community outreach efforts, including events, workshops, and public forums that connect residents with the resources and protections available to them
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Research human rights issues, local ordinances, and best practices to inform the Commission's work and strengthen its impact
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Maintain case files and digital records in strict accordance with confidentiality protocols
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Draft communications, reports, and educational materials that reach and inform the public
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Attend Commission meetings and hearings, as needed.
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Organize and maintain archives to ensure the integrity and accessibility of Commission records
What We're Looking For
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A current college student with a genuine interest in human rights, social justice, public policy, or a related field
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Strong written and verbal communication skills
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The ability to work both independently and as part of a team
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Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office
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A firm commitment to confidentiality and ethical conduct
Preferred, But Not Required
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Experience with community organizing or advocacy
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Multilingual abilities
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Familiarity with South Bend communities and local government
What You'll Gain
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Hands-on experience in civil rights enforcement and public service
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Mentorship from seasoned professionals committed to human rights work
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The opportunity to contribute directly to meaningful community impact
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A letter of recommendation upon successful completion of the internship
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Academic credit, where applicable through your institution
About the Human Rights Commission
The South Bend Human Rights Commission works to eliminate discrimination and promote equal opportunity for all residents. We investigate complaints, educate the community, and advocate for policies that uphold the rights of every person in our city. Our interns are not observers — they are contributors to that mission from day one.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and walk and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk, use hands to fingers, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required in this job include vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment:
Work is performed in office settings, with moderate inside temperatures. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate. The entire office is smoke free.
Required:
Drug test
Background Check
DISCLAIMER:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of personnel so classified. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. The City of South Bend is an at-will employer.
Essential Duty: Uphold Core Values
All employees of the City of South Bend are expected to uphold and actively demonstrate the City's Core Values in their daily work, which are summarized below:
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Excellence – Deliver high-quality service and strive for continuous improvement.
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Accountability – Take ownership of responsibilities and outcomes.
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Innovation – Seek creative solutions and embrace new ideas.
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Inclusion – Promote a respectful, equitable, and welcoming environment.
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Empowerment – Support and encourage others to grow and succeed.
This duty is fundamental to fostering a positive workplace culture and delivering exceptional public service.
These values shape our culture, inform our decisions, and inspire our work every day.
Equal Employment Opportunity & Diversity Statement
The City of South Bend is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or tolerate harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs. We value and celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace for all employees.
