The External Relations Department secures support for WITNESS from foundations and corporate donors, an annual fund campaign that targets individuals, and a program of events including house parties, dinners and gala concerts. This is a unique opportunity for a graduate student to hone their research skills, while building hands-on development experience, participate in events to learn about WITNESS’ human rights work, and experience a fast-paced non-profit organization.
Potential interns should be graduate students. We look for an academic focus in Nonprofit Development and Management, English, Communications, Human Rights, International Relations, Political Science and interdisciplinary studies.
Tasks will include:
- Researching and submitting Letters of Inquiry (LOIs) to US based foundations for new funding opportunities, specifically around activities supporting WITNESS' new strategic vision and "Cameras Everywhere" Leadership Initiative.
- Together with the External Relations Associate, ongoing research of European funding prospects, helping the team determine strategic next steps and writing letters of inquiry.
- Drafting detailed and concise prospect memos of potential funders.
- Helping Foundations Team with funding strategy and identifying new trends in philanthropy.
- Assisting Development staff as needed.
All interns are expected to spend between 20-30% of their time engaged in administrative support.
Qualifications:
- Excellent research skills
- Strong written communication skills and attention to detail
- Ability to work independently as well as to multitask effectively
- Previous development/fundraising experience preferred
- Familiarity with MS Office applications a must; experience with web-based database systems and web design a plus
General Information:
We require a minimum of two months commitment, for at least 20 hours a week. Internships are unpaid. Our offices are located in Brooklyn, NY, convenient to the Atlantic Terminal (2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, Q, N and R trains) and C (Lafayette) and G (Fulton) trains.
Application Instructions:
No phone inquiries please. We strongly prefer applications by email to internship@witness.orgincluding a resume and cover letter with “Foundations” in the Subject.
