For most individuals, the local and state government's actions greatly influence their lives. Working within the state government allows for engagement with the local communities to help build a sense of community. I was the Data and Communications Intern for State Representative Katie Stuart’s Constituent Office, as part of the Illinois House Democrats. I was responsible for managing casework, community outreach, event planning, data entry and management, and press. The internship allowed me to understand how to build community through local governance and to see the impact of legislation on constituents' lives. I was able to engage with constituents, and help with civic education through community outreach, and working to build Representative Stuart’s relationship with constituents, local businesses, and community organizations. This internship helped me to understand the process of building a community through local governance and to see the connections between constituents and the legislative process that at times can feel disconnected.