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Intern With Us

Gain real-world policy, communications, and nonprofit experience while helping to build a healthier future for all Coloradans.
A group of college kids working together.

An Internship with Impact. A Career with Purpose.

The next generation of leaders will determine the future health of our state. At Mental Health Colorado, we are committed to investing in that future. Our internship program is designed to be a launchpad, providing students with the experience, mentorship, skills, and expanded professional network needed to become effective agents of change. Join us and start building a career that matters.

Do Real Work

From day one, you’ll be an integrated member of our team, working on a core project with tangible outcomes. You’ll draft policy briefs, develop digital campaigns, or conduct program research that directly contributes to our mission.

Receive Dedicated Mentorship

Every intern is paired with an experienced staff mentor who provides weekly guidance, feedback, and career coaching. We are invested in your professional growth and success, both during your time with us and beyond.

Build Your Career

Gain the skills and portfolio pieces you need to stand out. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the nonprofit sector, a powerful professional network, and a resume that demonstrates your ability to make a real-world impact.
2023-2024 Cohort

Mental Health Colorado

“As an intern I was able to delve into the macro world of policy advocacy and witness the top-down impact of policy work on the individual clients Mental Health Colorado serves. It was a true honor to be a part of this process and the impacts the organization has on representing and amplifying the voices of those whose voice was once inaudible.”
2025-2026 Cohort

Mental Health Colorado

Working at Mental Health Colorado has fundamentally shifted how I understand mental health—not just as an individual experience, but as something deeply shaped by policy, systems, and access. I’ve gained a much clearer picture of how decisions made at the legislative level directly affect the quality and availability of care people receive.”

    Our University Partners

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    Your Journey Starts Here

    Step 1

    Explore

    Review our open roles.

    Step 2

    Apply

    Submit your application (resume and cover letter) by the deadline.

    • Summer 2026: Now open, closes April 1, 2026.
    • Fall 2026 – Spring 2027 Now open, closes May 1, 2026.
    Step 3

    Interview

    Selected candidates will be invited to a virtual interview with the program manager and the potential staff mentor.

    Step 4

    Offer & Onboarding

    Successful candidates will receive a formal offer. Upon acceptance, you’ll complete onboarding paperwork and prepare for your start date.

    Choose the Pathway That Aligns with Your Goals

    Our internships are structured into distinct professional pathways, allowing you to gain specialized experience in your field of interest. Explore the opportunities below to see where you fit in.

    Please note: Internships are available only to students enrolled in an accredited degree program.

    Help Build the Movement Online

    Communications & Digital Engagement

    For creative storytellers and digital strategists. Join our Communications team to manage social media, write compelling content, design graphics, and learn how to run effective digital advocacy campaigns.

    Available Roles

    Public Relations Intern
    Support media relations by developing media toolkits, including drafting press releases, compiling media lists, and creating talking points for new reports or events.
    Digital Communications Intern
    Manage and create content for MHC’s social media channels, design graphics, and execute a digital campaign for a key awareness initiative.
    Help Raise Funds for Change

    Fundraising & Development

    Are you ready to drive meaningful change and strengthen the impact of health advocacy in Colorado? As a Fundraising & Development intern at Mental Health Colorado, you will contribute directly to the strategic efforts that fund and sustain critical programs across the state.

    Available Roles

    Grant & Campaign Support Intern
    As a Grant & Campaign Support Intern, you will support our fundraising strategy across both grants and major giving campaigns. You will work with our team to research grant opportunities, assist in campaign planning and execution, and help track progress toward key development goals.
    Donor Relations & Stewardship Intern
    As a Donor Relations & Stewardship Intern, you will help deepen relationships with our supporters and ensure they feel connected, valued, and informed about the impact of their gifts. You will gain hands-on experience in donor communications, acknowledgment processes, and tracking giving trends.
    Help Shape Policy at the State Capitol

    Policy & Legislative Advocacy

    For students passionate about law, government, and social justice. Work alongside our Government Affairs team to research legislation, track bills, and support our advocacy efforts during the legislative session (Spring semester).

    Available Roles

    Advocacy Campaign Intern
    Assist the advocacy team in designing and implementing grassroots outreach plans, focusing on engaging community storytellers to support specific legislative bills.
    Legislative Research Intern
    Support the Government Affairs team by tracking legislation, researching policy issues, and developing a comprehensive policy brief on a key health topic.

    Internship Application

    Are you seeking academic credit for this internship? *
    Semester Applying For *

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    Max size: 10MB. Accepted: .pdf, .doc, .docx, .txt

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    Get Involved

    Help change mental health in Colorado. Your support is vital, and every action powers our work and promotes healthier minds across the lifespan for all Coloradans.
    Donate
    Donations to Mental Health Colorado help pass laws, change practices and build a movement to promote healthier minds across the lifespan for all Coloradans, ending health-based discrimination, and providing better access to housing, health care, supports and services.
    Join Brain Wave
    Join nearly 2,000 Coloradans who are turning their experience into action.
    Intern With Us
    Gain real-world policy, communications, and nonprofit experience while helping to build a healthier future for all Coloradans.
    Volunteer With Us
    Join a powerful movement of advocates passing laws, changing practices, and building a healthier future for all Coloradans.
    Sponsorship Opportunities
    join us in advancing health and well-being for all Coloradans. Our work to promote healthier minds across the lifespan gains strength through your support, and this year, we are introducing even more impactful opportunities for you to engage and connect with communities statewide.
    Share Your Story

    Your story is a powerful force for change. Sharing your experience helps end health-based discrimination, inspire hope, and show others they are not alone. Use your voice to transform mental health in Colorado.