Careers in Public Service: Building Community Impact Through Housing, Food Access & Nonprofit Leadership

About this event

Interested in a career where your work directly impacts communities?

Join Chris McAneny, Founder and Director of Rising Well Development (RWD), for an engaging discussion about careers in public service, nonprofit leadership, community development, housing access, sustainable food systems, and educational outreach. Drawing from his professional experiences building a growing Pittsburgh-area nonprofit, Chris will share lessons learned, career advice, and insights into the realities of creating meaningful change at the community level.

Students will learn:

• Career pathways within nonprofit and public service organizations

• Skills employers look for in mission-driven work

• How housing, education, food systems, and community development intersect

• Ways students can build experience while still in college

• Strategies for turning academic interests into community impact careers

Following the presentation, students will have the opportunity to learn about Spring 2027 internship opportunities with Rising Well Development. Available internship areas include nonprofit operations, housing navigation, sustainable agriculture, community partnerships, and digital education. Internships are anticipated to be approximately 10 hours per week and provide hands-on experience working on meaningful community initiatives.

This event is open to all students, but may be particularly relevant for those studying sustainability, environmental science, business, communications, education, social work, public policy, sociology, human services, nonprofit management, and related fields.