1959 Highlander Way · New Market, TN 37820 · phone: (865) 933-3443 · fax: (865) 933-3424
e-mail: hrec@highlandercenter.org

General Information | Application Process

General Information

Highlander's commitment to having Interns here is, at its core, a political commitment. We believe that in order to support broad-based social justice movements for the long haul, we must continually involve new voices, especially those of young people. Intentional and hands-on work with interns is one way we further these political goals.

We are committed to a working exchange between the Highlander staff and interns that is beneficial for both. Interns learn the nuts and bolts of social justice work and popular education; and gain in confidence, determination, and empathy. Highlander benefits from their commitment, energy, and passion, and from the significant daily roles they play in accomplishing the work. Highlander will consciously strive, within its capacity, to help interns gain the skills they want and need during their internship.

A mainstay of Highlander's vision is the principal that people must speak for themselves. Our internship program is a reflection of this: in order to be accountable to our constituencies, the leaders we support must reflect the communities we are based in. Therefore, we especially encourage young folks, immigrants, working people, Appalachian people, people of color, and Lesbian/Gay/Bi/Trans people to apply. We are especially in need of interns who are bilingual in English and Spanish.

Interns can presently work in one or more of four areas: in our resource center, in our Pueblos de Latinoamerica program, in our Multilingual Capacity Building program, or with our Young and the Restless program. However, we may take interns in other areas in the future. We also take volunteers throughout the year.

Each intern works with the Intern Team Leader and with one other key staff person who does programmatic work with them. Interns in all areas are involved in planning, organizing, and evaluating workshops, and in office work, greeting guests, and processing library materials, to name a few of their responsibilities. There is also time to do independent study, learn about all aspects of Highlander's work, and participate in the life at Highlander.

Interns are invited for three to six month periods in the fall, spring, and summer. Housing is available, and interns are welcome to share meals prepared during workshops. However, these are not available on a regular basis, and interns are generally responsible for their own food. Each intern also receives a $200 stipend per week. Interns are housed with up to two roommates. The intern house is located on the Highlander farm, about 25 miles outside of Knoxville in a very rural area. Generally, Highlander requires a total of 30 flexible hours per week, with weekend work as an essential element.

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Application Process

If you are interested in applying for an internship, please forward a letter of interest including the following information:

• Why Highlander?
• What do you see as the role of Popular Education in our society?
• What are your specific community organizing interests?
• How do you see your interests and the work of Highlander connecting?
• What do you feel you can learn here?
• Where do you see some hope for change in our society?
• What community-based work have you done, and/or what community-based organizations have you been involved in?
• Do you have specific skills to offer?
• Do you have your own transportation?

Please be sure to include your complete address, phone number, and e-mail address so we can contact you about your application.

Decisions are based on many factors, including need, staff availability, space, and number of applicants. We will respond to your request as quickly as possible. Please note that we cannot process applications until they are complete, including cover letters. Please forward your letter of interest, your resume, and contact information (including phone numbers) for three references to:

Roberto Tijerina
Internship Program
1959 Highlander Way
New Market, TN 37820
roberto at highlandercenter.org

Applications for internships are accepted on a rolling basis. If you are considering an internship at Highlander, we ask that you do the following:

• If you are interested in a specific program internship, please visit that program’s page on our website to check out internship opportunities.
• If you are open to working in any program, please submit your application no later than six weeks before your desired start date.
• Please let us know your available start and end date (how long you would like to be at Highlander).

Your application will then be matched to current program needs. You will then be advised by a member of the staff as to whether or not there is availability during your specified time.

If you have any questions, please feel free to address them to Roberto Tijerina.

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