Development and Communications Intern

Development & Communications Intern (Summer/Fall 2026) Supervisor: Director of Development Position Summary Preferred Start Date: July 2026, with the opportunity to continue through the fall 2026 semester. This internship may be eligible for academic credit through the student's college or university. Time Commitment: Approximately 15–20 hours per week, with flexibility based on academic schedules and organizational needs. The Development & Communications Intern supports ZCenter's fundraising, marketing, communications, community engagement and special events efforts. This position provides hands-on experience in nonprofit development, donor relations, event planning, content creation, social media management and community outreach. The intern will assist with a variety of projects designed to increase awareness of ZCenter's mission, engage supporters, strengthen community partnerships, and support fundraising initiatives. The intern will gain tangible experience and exposure to nonprofit fundraising, communications, donor engagement, special events, and community outreach within a mission-driven organization. Specific Responsibilities Communications & Marketing Draft content for social media, newsletters, email communications and website updates.Create graphics and visual content using Canva.Assist with gathering content through staff and volunteer interviews, and at ZCenter events.Assist with capturing photos and short-form video content for social media, events and donor communications. Development & Fundraising Assist with researching corporate partners and community and faith organizations for outreach and partnership opportunities.Assist with donor stewardship activities, including thank-you letters and other recognition efforts.Support preparation of donor and sponsorship materials and food for tours and visits. Events Assist with ordering event materials, including printing, supplies and promotional items.Help assemble event packets, signage, and participant materials.Attend events as needed to support logistics, registration and photography. Administrative Support Assist with general department projects and special assignments.Attend department meetings (as available) and supervision sessions.Provide occasional support to other departments and agency initiatives as needed. Preferred Qualifications Current junior or senior pursuing a Bachelor's degree, or a graduate student pursuing a Master's degree, in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Nonprofit Management, Journalism, or a related field.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Experience with social media platforms and Canva preferred.Strong organizational skills.Ability to work independently.Interest in nonprofit organizations, fundraising, communications or social impact work. Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter to funddevelopment@zcenter.org. Work Environment: This is primarily an in-person internship based in ZCenter's Skokie office. Interns may be asked to work from the Gurnee office and attend community and fundraising events as needed. Limited remote work opportunities may be available depending on assignments and supervisor approval. Reliable transportation is preferred, as occasional travel between ZCenter locations and community events may be requested. The Development & Communications Intern is expected to support ZCenter's mission and values while contributing to a positive, collaborative, and professional work environment. Interns are expected to interact respectfully and effectively with clients, donors, volunteers, staff, and community partners, and to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and confidentiality.