Backstretch Activities Intern

Churchill Downs Racetrack (“CDRT”), the world’s most legendary racetrack, is home to The Kentucky Derby and conducts Thoroughbred horse racing during three race meets in the Spring, September, and Fall. The stable area accommodates 1,400 horses and includes a 114-room dormitory for backstretch personnel.

About the role

The Backstretch Recreation program is funded by the Churchill Downs Racing Committee to improve the lives of the backside community at Churchill Downs Racetrack. The backside community consists of people who work in the stable area, with the majority being Spanish speakers.

Schedule

Seasonal: Fall (mid-August to November). 20–25 hours per week, with preference for evening availability (4–8 PM).

Responsibilities

• Help maintain regular hours in the recreation hall to meet community needs, including evenings.
• Create flyers for activities in English and Spanish, post announcements to social media and in the stable area, and make loudspeaker announcements.
• Set up and clean up for backside recreational events, including arranging tables, chairs, and decorations.
• Create signs, flyers, tournament rules, etc., in English and Spanish.
• Track attendance or registration for participants and manage attendee information.
• Advertise and sell tickets to events, and communicate with attendees about schedules, locations, and tickets.
• Assist with organizing and executing programming, including community celebrations, sports and game tournaments, excursions to local attractions, and classes (e.g., fitness, swimming, tennis).
• Provide English-Spanish interpretation and translation for recreation program activities.
• Assist with volunteer recruitment and communication.

Requirements

• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) communication skills mandatory.
• Experience working with individuals from varying backgrounds.
• Proficiency with computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Excel).

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Requires working indoors and outdoors, including some weekends and many evenings.
• Requires lifting up to 50 lbs.