The public health industry relies heavily on the contributions of public health internships and volunteers, and as a result, there are a number of internships and volunteer positions with public health organizations available throughout the nation and abroad.
As a volunteer or intern, you’ll gain real-life experience on the job, learn from professionals, and contribute to the health and well-being of the community in which you serve. Participating in public health internships or volunteer positions helps give you a well-rounded, solid education, and your experience will be invaluable when you search for a public health job.
Public Health Internships
There are a variety of resources to pursue when searching for public health internships. First, contact your respective college or university to find out if they have any internships available or contacts with relevant organizations. If you have difficulty finding information or want to broaden your search, check out the following opportunities:
American Red Cross Internships
Children’s Defense Fund Internship
Partners in Health Internship
National Partnership for Women and Families Internships
World Health Organization Internships
Public Health Foundation Internships
Volunteer with Public Health Organizations
Check Locally
One of the best ways to become a public health volunteer is to contact your city or county health department. They can work with you to find an opportunity with a local public health association.
Contact National Organizations
Another great option is to contact national public health organizations. They will have resources, which can direct you to volunteer programs near you.
United States Department of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
American Public Health Association
Partners in Information Access for the Public Health Workforce
National Association of County and City Health Officials
Association of Public Health Laboratories
Go Global
Public health is a world-wide concern, and there are many volunteer programs that can take you across the globe to help those less fortunate. These programs are often sponsored by American organizations and send public health volunteers to nearly every continent.
Volunteer duties may include: assisting at public hospitals, conducting nutrition classes, providing treatment, implementing health programs, supporting cancer patients, assisting the elderly, working in a community clinic, or even teaching a language.
You can search for volunteer opportunities at the following organizations:
