The Center for Environmental and Social Development (CESD) relies on a flexible and mission-driven model that includes volunteers, interns, civic contributors, journalists, researchers, media producers, translators, and young content creators who support the organization’s work in different ways.
CESD’s volunteer-based model does not mean informal or unstructured work. Rather, it reflects a low-cost civil society approach built on commitment, documentation, digital tools, professional collaboration, and responsible management. This model allows the organization to reduce administrative expenses and direct more of its available resources toward public-interest work.
Internship Program – New York Office
CESD also provides internship opportunities through its New York office for students and young professionals interested in human rights, journalism, media production, civic engagement, nonprofit work, and sustainable development.
Interns may contribute to research, translation, content editing, video production, digital archiving, social media support, website updates, community outreach, and other activities connected to CESD’s mission.
The individuals listed on this page include interns and contributors who have supported CESD’s work through its New York office or related civic and media initiatives.
Broader Volunteer Network
In addition to office-based interns, CESD benefits from a broader network of volunteers and contributors who support its work remotely or through project-based collaboration. Some contributors assist with writing, research, video production, translation, editing, public advocacy, youth initiatives, and independent media projects.
For privacy, security, and professional reasons, CESD may not publish the names of all volunteers, contributors, journalists, or content creators involved in its work. However, their contributions remain an essential part of CESD’s ability to continue operating with limited resources while maintaining an active public presence.
Why This Model Matters
CESD’s volunteer and internship model helps the organization remain active, efficient, and connected to the communities it serves. It also provides young people and emerging professionals with practical experience in civic work, media, human rights, democratic values, and public-interest communication.
Through this model, CESD has been able to sustain its work, publish hundreds of articles, produce hundreds of web videos and programs, support civic initiatives, and develop digital platforms such as Voice of Syria.
Lilia Khoury
Lilia Khoury is a volunteer editor for our website, where she has contributed to various projects and proofread numerous articles from our correspondents around the world. She’s a student at Fort Hamilton High School and has a fantastic media presence, which enabled her to narrate the book “Nuclear Energy Between Peace and War,” now available on Audible. Additionally, Lilia is a Fort Hamilton High School basketball team member and actively participates in the New York State School League.
Joseph T. Elian
Joseph Elian is a volunteer photographer who has covered several events and activities with our center. He’s also a well-known photographer at Monsignor Farrell High School, where he captures sports events and produces films for the school. On top of that, he’s a key player on the school’s football team and actively participates in the New York State School League.
