Event Planning & Program Development 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:

Lindenwood Retreat and Conference Center Interns (2 positions)
Goal 1: Support hospitality operations and guest services by learning retreat logistics, scheduling systems, and the unique needs of spiritual programming.
Goal 2: Contribute to program development, including themed retreats, community days, and evaluation tools that align with Lindenwood’s mission.
Goal 3: Gain insight into faith-based leadership, contemplative practice, and customer service by shadowing key team members and participating in retreat experiences.

Conclusion:
Our internship program is designed to offer meaningful, values-aligned learning experiences that prepare students for careers in nonprofit, communications, and spiritual service fields. We are committed to fostering a learning environment where interns are seen, mentored, and challenged in ways that reflect our mission and support their vocational discernment.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities:

• Assist in coordinating retreats, workshops, and day events
• Manage event logistics: setup/tear-down, materials prep, and hospitality support
• Support facilitators with scheduling, communications, and on-site needs
• Help maintain retreat planning documents, evaluations, and promotional content
• Contribute to a shared library of digital assets for programs and events

Qualifications

Ideal Candidate:
Creative, reliable, interested in spiritual programming, logistics, and designing inclusive guest experiences that align with our values of justice and compassion.