Community Development Internship Jobs in Plano, TX

ASD Emerging Leaders Fellowship – Community Leadership & Housing Fellow 

Fall 2026 – Spring 2027 Cohort  |  Part-Time Fellowship 

Location: Dallas, Texas (Hybrid/On-Site) 

Compensation: Unpaid Volunteer Fellowship – This is an educational and professional development opportunity. Fellows receive mileage reimbursement for fellowship-related activities. 

About ASD – A Home for Life 

At ASD – A Home for Life (ASD) is a Dallas-based nonprofit organization providing permanent supportive housing and wraparound services for individuals and families impacted by chronic health conditions. Guided by our core values of Respect, Justice, Mercy, Integrity, Driven, and Compassion, we are committed to building a workplace culture that reflects the dignity and care we extend to those we serve. 

The Role 

The ASD Emerging Leaders Fellowship is an unpaid, volunteer educational opportunity designed for emerging leaders who want to gain meaningful, hands-on experience in nonprofit leadership, housing advocacy, and community development. Fellows work alongside ASD staff and community partners to support initiatives that advance housing stability and healthy communities throughout Dallas. This fellowship is ideal for current students, graduate students, or recent graduates seeking real-world exposure to mission-driven nonprofit work. 

What You’ll Do 

As a Fellow, you will contribute to community engagement, resident empowerment, research, and communications work across a range of ASD initiatives. Fellows commit approximately 10–15 hours per week with a flexible schedule that accommodates academic and personal commitments. 

Community Engagement & Outreach 

• Support community engagement and outreach activities, including resident leadership and empowerment initiatives. 
• Help coordinate educational workshops, resource events, advocacy efforts, and outreach campaigns. 
• Attend community meetings, stakeholder gatherings, and neighborhood engagement activities. 
• Support civic education and nonpartisan community awareness initiatives. 
• Collaborate with ASD staff and community partners on special projects and outreach campaigns. 

Research & Communications 

• Conduct research related to affordable housing, homelessness, public policy, and community development. 
• Assist with the preparation of reports, presentations, briefing materials, and stakeholder communications. 
• Support storytelling, impact data collection, and community feedback efforts. 
• Help strengthen relationships with residents, volunteers, donors, and community stakeholders. 

Leadership & Professional Exposure 

• Attend select community leadership, chamber, advocacy, or stakeholder meetings. 
• Engage with nonprofit executives, business owners, developers, and community leaders. 
• Support select fundraising, advocacy, or community partnership initiatives. 
• Participate in professional networking and leadership development opportunities. 

Qualifications 

Required 

• Current college student, graduate student, or recent graduate (preferred fields: Social Work, Public Administration, Urban Planning, Political Science, Communications, Public Health, Nonprofit Management, or related disciplines). 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse communities and stakeholders. 
• Ability to commit approximately 10–15 hours per week for the duration of the Fall 2026 – Spring 2027 fellowship term. 

Preferred 

• Interest in nonprofit leadership, housing advocacy, public policy, fundraising, or community development. 
• Experience with outreach, volunteerism, event support, or community engagement. 
• Familiarity with social justice, affordable housing, or economic mobility issues. 
• Strong organizational and research abilities. 

What Fellows Receive 

While this fellowship is unpaid, ASD is committed to providing Fellows with a rich professional development experience. Fellows may receive: 

• Direct mentorship and career guidance from ASD executive leadership and community leaders. 
• Approved mileage reimbursement for fellowship-related activities. 
• ASD fellowship materials and organizational merchandise. 
• Letter of recommendation and fellowship completion certificate upon successful completion. 
• Access to select professional development, networking, and leadership events. 
• Resume-building, portfolio development, and professional reference support. 
• Priority consideration for future paid internship or employment opportunities when available. 
• Occasional team meals, community gatherings, and fellowship appreciation opportunities. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement 

ASD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where all individuals are respected and valued. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.