Public Relations & Outreach Intern

Description

Organizational Overview:
The Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ (PHJC) is a Catholic community of vowed women religious and lay collaborators committed to walking with the poor and marginalized through ministries of justice, compassion, and holistic service. Anchored in Donaldson, Indiana, PHJC sponsors several ministries including a retreat and conference center (Lindenwood), development and communications initiatives, and mission outreach services. Our work is rooted in the Gospel, Saint Katharina Kasper’s legacy, and a commitment to social justice and human dignity.

Internship Program Supervision, Training, and Mentorship:
As Executive Director of Relational Services, I will directly supervise all interns during their placement. Each intern will participate in an orientation and receive onboarding through Human Resources to ensure clarity on workplace policies, confidentiality, and mission alignment. Weekly check-ins and structured feedback sessions will provide ongoing guidance and accountability.

In addition to direct supervision, each intern will be mentored by a director or senior colleague in their assigned department—whether in Communications, Development, or Lindenwood Retreat and Conference Center. This model ensures not only technical skill-building but also exposure to leadership styles, values-driven decision-making, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Internship Learning Goals by Role:

Communications/Development Interns (3 positions)
Goal 1: Gain hands-on experience using nonprofit communication tools such as Canva, Constant Contact, and Bloomerang to support storytelling and donor engagement.
Goal 2: Develop writing, design, and research skills by contributing to social media calendars, appeal campaigns, and internal publications.
Goal 3: Understand the role of development and marketing in faith-based nonprofit sustainability by assisting in donor stewardship, event planning, and campaign evaluation.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities:

Draft press releases, media kits, and outreach letters

Support event promotions and public-facing communication for ministries

Coordinate media outreach lists and archive press coverage

Organize and maintain public relations-related content in the Digital Asset Library

Assist with capturing and categorizing event photos, testimonials, and partner stories

Qualifications

Ideal Candidate: 
Clear communicator, relationship builder, detail-oriented, and eager to support mission-forward outreach in service of faith and justice.