External Relations & Program Development Internship

Description

The Ripley County Community Foundation, Inc. has a mission to assist donors in building an enduring source of charitable assets to benefit the citizens and qualified organizations of Ripley County, and since 1997, the Community Foundation has granted over $17 million back to the community.  Governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, the Community Foundation serves donors and communities by putting into practice our guiding principle, "Connecting People Who Care with Causes that Matter."  The Ripley County Community Foundation focuses its works and programming around the following four pillars: 1) Arts & Culture, 2) Education & Workforce Development, 3) Health & Well-Being, and 4) Environment & Natural Resources.

The Ripley County Community Foundation's Internship Program is designed to develop today's youth into tomorrow's leaders by providing an experiential learning opportunity that exposes high school and college students to philanthropic careers in the nonprofit sector.  Interns are supervised by the Executive Director and collaborate closely with other staff to design, execute, and evaluate impactful projects and programs.  Through hands-on involvement and real-world application, interns gain valuable insights and skills that prepare them for future leadership roles in the field of community service and nonprofit management.

Learning goals of this internship include but are not limited to the following:

• Gain Practical Experience in Nonprofit Management: Interns will acquire hands-on experience in various aspects of nonprofit operations, including project development, program implementation, and organizational administration. This goal aims to familiarize students with the day-to-day functions and strategic initiatives of a nonprofit organization.

• Develop Leadership and Professional Skills: Interns will have the opportunity to enhance their leadership abilities and professional competencies by working closely with the Executive Director and other staff members. This includes skills such as project management, team collaboration, effective communication, and strategic planning.

• Understand the Impact of Philanthropy: Interns will learn about the role and impact of philanthropy in community development. This goal focuses on helping students grasp how philanthropic efforts can address community needs, foster positive social change, and contribute to the overall effectiveness of nonprofit organizations.

Responsibilities

The External Relations and Project Development Intern will assist with the development and implementation of entrepreneurial programs, specifically the D.I.C.E. Challenge, Emerge: Young Innovators Summit, and Career Exploration Expo, that meet the community's needs as identified in the Education & Workforce Development pillar.  The intern will be responsible for logistical planning (venue selection and securing availability of technological needs), marketing and outreach (developing/distributing promotional materials and recruiting student participation), and securing sponsorships (approaching potential financial contributors and formulating new partnerships with local businesses and educational institutions).  The intern will lead these projects with comprehensive guidance and support from the Executive Director to ensure efficient and successful execution, without being left to handle all aspects independently.

This internship position may also take on other duties, regularly associated with office management, including filing, creating memos/reports, answering the phone, and performing other clerical duties.  Administrative tasks will not exceed more than 20% of the intern's total responsibilities.

Qualifications

1). Commitment to the Nonprofit Sector: Demonstrated interest in and enthusiasm for working within the nonprofit sector.

2). Team Collaboration Skills: Ability to work effectively in a team environment, including strong communication skills, willingness to collaborate, and supportive attitude toward colleagues.

3). Proactive and Self-Motivated: Strong initiative and self-motivation to take ownership of projects and drive them forward.

4). Positive Attitude: Demonstrate a positive and professional attitude, even when faced with challenges.

5). Adaptability and Flexibility: Willingness to adapt to changing needs and priorities, and to contribute to various aspects of the project as required.

6). Creativity: Ability to think creatively and strategically to assist in carrying out the mission of the organization.