Development & Events Intern

Founders Hall; Washington; On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Founders Hall is seeking an organized Development & Events Intern to support planning and execution of the Living Artfully Gala. This role is ideal for a recent college graduate exploring nonprofit development, fundraising, marketing, or event planning.

You will work with the Director of Philanthropy on sponsorships, data management in GiveSmart, communications, and on-site operations for the Gala, gaining hands-on experience in fundraising and event execution.

Qualifications

• Highly organized and detail-oriented with strong follow-through.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
• Experience with Canva or event software is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Coordinating sponsorships, auction items, and event logistics.
• Managing data and materials in GiveSmart and event spreadsheets.
• Preparing donor, sponsor, and auction communications.
• Assisting with guest registration, seating, and event-day operations.
• Supporting volunteers, sponsors, and vendors during the Gala.
• Preparing thank-you letters, event reports, and post-event stewardship.

Skills

Organized

Communication

Proactive

Confidentiality

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Spreadsheets

GiveSmart

Canva

Job description

Job Description

Founders Hall is seeking an organized, enthusiastic Development & Events Intern to support planning and execution of our signature fundraising event, the Living Artfully Gala. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent college graduate or someone exploring a new career in nonprofit development, fundraising, marketing, communications, or event planning.

Responsibilities

Working directly with the Director of Philanthropy, you will assist with all aspects of Gala planning, including:

• Coordinating sponsorships, auction items, and event logistics
• Managing data and materials in GiveSmart and event spreadsheets
• Preparing donor, sponsor, and auction communications
• Assisting with guest registration, seating, and event-day operations
• Supporting volunteers, sponsors, and vendors during the Gala
• Preparing thank-you letters, event reports, and post-event stewardship

Qualifications

• Highly organized and detail-oriented with excellent follow through
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Positive, proactive, and dependable
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and spreadsheets
• Experience with Canva or event software is a plus
• Professional demeanor and commitment to confidentiality

What You'll Gain

This position offers hands-on experience in:

• Nonprofit fundraising and philanthropy
• Event planning and execution
• Auction management and GiveSmart software
• Corporate sponsorships and donor relations
• Marketing and communications
• Volunteer coordination

Schedule

• September 14 – October 2: Approximately 8–10 hours per week, with a flexible schedule that can be arranged around other commitments.
• October 5 – October 23: Approximately 25 hours per week, with flexibility in scheduling as project needs allow.
• The Living Artfully Gala takes place on Saturday, October 17.

About Founders Hall

Founders Hall is a vibrant nonprofit center serving adults age 60 and older through lifelong learning, fitness and wellness, arts, recreation, and social engagement. The Living Artfully Gala is Founders Hall's premier fundraising event, bringing together community leaders, businesses, and supporters to celebrate creativity while raising critical funds to enrich the lives of older adults.

If you're looking for meaningful work, valuable professional experience, and the opportunity to help create an unforgettable community event, we'd love to hear from you.

Company Description

Founders Hall is a vibrant nonprofit center serving adults age 60 and older through lifelong learning, fitness and wellness, arts, recreation, and social engagement. The Living Artfully Gala is Founders Hall's premier fundraising event, bringing together community leaders, businesses, and supporters to celebrate creativity while raising critical funds to enrich the lives of older adults.