Summer Communications Intern

Lake Forest
Lake Forest, IL

The City of Lake Forest is seeking a creative and motivated college student majoring in English, Communications, or a related field to join our team as a Communications Intern. This position will work primarily out of the Public Safety Building and will focus heavily on supporting Police and Fire communications. The intern will gain hands-on experience in municipal communications while helping tell the story of Lake Forest’s public safety professionals and contributing to projects that enhance community engagement and promote City initiatives.

· Assist in writing and editing social media posts, newsletters, and website content, with an emphasis on Police and Fire Department communications.

· Develop and schedule social media content and campaigns across platforms to highlight public safety initiatives, community outreach, and day-to-day department work.

· Help showcase the work of first responders through engaging storytelling, interviews, and behind-the-scenes features.

· Take photos and create videos for use on social media, the website, and other City communication channels, especially related to Police and Fire operations, training, and events.

· Write journalistic stories for the City’s Lake Forest Love blog by conducting interviews and collaborating with staff, including public safety personnel.

· Conduct research to support marketing and outreach initiatives, particularly those related to community safety and engagement.

· Collaborate with City staff to develop content that aligns with brand standards and community goals.

· Assist with daily administrative and communications support duties.

· Current college student majoring in English, Communications, Digital Media, Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field.

· Strong writing and editing skills, with attention to detail.

· Familiarity with social media platforms and content creation, especially Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

· Interest in public safety communications, community storytelling, or local government.

· Self-starter with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

· Enthusiasm for public service and community engagement.

· Basic knowledge of photography and graphic design tools is a plus, but not required.

Benefits:

· Gain practical experience in public sector and public safety communications.

· Build a professional portfolio that includes social media campaigns, video, photography, and written storytelling.

· Explore your interests by creating content on a variety of topics, with a strong focus on police, fire, and emergency services.


Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and two writing samples.

// // //