Community Engagement

The Moakley Center undertakes a variety of projects to support public service work carried out by both public and nonprofit organizations in the community. Some of the work is done under contract, some on a pro bono basis. Many staff members and senior fellows serve on Boards of Directors for local nonprofit organizations in Boston as well.

Ongoing Projects

iWorks Internship Program

In partnership with Communities for People, and the Department of Children and Families, The Moakley Center provides a paid summer and fall internship program to youth in the greater Boston community. By offering training sessions, incentivizing good work habits, providing a job coach and offering match saving plans, the youth learn the key professional skills and responsibilities needed to work with one of our community partners. To date, over 500 youth have successfully completed the program, and gained valuable work experience by participating in it.

Women with Purpose

Since 2015, The Moakley center has sponsored Women with Purpose, whose mission is to connect, cultivate and empower women who identify themselves as minorities by enhancing professional and leadership skills to help women thrive personally and professionally. They do this by providing a series of seminars, with topics ranging from (but not limited to) negotiation skills, personal branding and financial literacy. Their goal is to empower women to achieve their greatest potential by providing unparalleled opportunities for professional development and skill building. To learn more about Women with Purpose, visit their website.

Legislative Academy

New legislators have the opportunity to learn about their key responsibilities at a freshman training session. Since 2005, under the leadership and direction of the offices of the House Speaker and President of the Senate, a similar learning opportunity has been available for legislative staff: The Massachusetts Legislative Academy Staff Seminar. On January 23 and 24, 2019, this bi-annual seminar was held for the 8th time.

Presented by Suffolk University’s Moakley Center for Public Management and Public Policy and Practice HUB, this two half-day long seminar provides staffers with the background information and the tools to effectively serve their Legislator, their Constituents and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. While it is a time for professional development, it also provides a wider lens, focusing on the importance of public service and the high regard and responsibility that comes with Staffer positions at the Massachusetts Legislature.  

Learn More

Looking for undergraduate community service opportunities? Visit Suffolk's Center for Community Engagement for more information.