Introducing the FEMA Region 2 Student Volunteer Program

Hello! My name is Heleen Bennett and I am a Program Specialist with the National Preparedness Division with FEMA Region 2. I also serve as the Student Volunteer/Internship Program Coordinator for our office. We accept applications from graduate and undergraduate degree students three times per year (fall, spring, and summer terms). Students selected to participate in the program receive 120-day appointments, and serve with our office for about 4 months in total. Additionally, students are also eligible to extend their internship if interested and approved by their supervisor.

 Student volunteers serve in a variety of projects and capacities throughout the regional office, working with divisions including National Preparedness, Mitigation, Recovery, Response, and the Office of the Regional Administrator. They complete projects ranging from reports and white papers, to providing informational presentations and trainings. Students are also encouraged to engage in professional development opportunities, such as meet and greets with staff members and informational presentations on programmatic work.

 In order to apply, students must note the following requirements:

• Student Volunteers must be enrolled in a graduate or undergraduate degree program (Junior/Senior year level).
• Students must be United States Citizens (green card holders, or those with student visas/work permits do not qualify).
• Accepted students must complete a background investigation and suitability of employment prior to start date (this process can take 3 months or longer).
• Students must be prepared to commit 15 working hours/week to their assigned role.
• Students must acknowledge that this is an unpaid opportunity.
• Students must report to 1 World Trade Center in NYC, in-person, at least once a week.

If interested, please feel free to send your resume and cover letter directly to me at heleen.bennett@fema.dhs.gov. Thank you and we look forward to hearing from you!