Volunteer Engagement Intern

Volunteer Engagement Intern

Job Type: Internship (unpaid)

Status: Part-time, 10-15  hours per week (or more if desired)

Availability: Tuesday-Thursday 

Location: In person, based in Detroit, MI

Department: Stewardship

Reports to: Volunteer Engagement Manager

Date: Spring and Summer  2025

Brilliant Detroit Overview 

In 2016 Brilliant Detroit was created to provide a radically new approach to kindergarten readiness in neighborhoods. The idea was to create a unique delivery model in our approach to early childhood development by using underutilized housing stock to create early child and family centers in neighborhoods. Brilliant Detroit hubs provide holistic services for kids 0-8 predicated on evidence-based programs around health, family support, and education. Brilliant Detroit was born to create kid success neighborhoods. Today, in each location, neighbors come together for fellowship, activities and learning to assure school readiness, and provide needed support for families.

Position Description
The Volunteer Operations Intern will assist in the planning and execution of volunteer projects across Brilliant Detroit sites. This role involves recruiting and supporting volunteers, maintaining accurate volunteer data,  supporting potential volunteers in navigating the volunteer management system and publicizing engagement opportunities and outcomes. 

Through this internship, you will gain comprehensive knowledge of Brilliant Detroit’s volunteer programming, including hands-on experience in volunteer coordination, communication, project development, day-to-day duties of volunteer management, and an understanding of nonprofit operations– key skill sets in community-based and service-driven organizations. 

Activities and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with staff to plan and coordinate both large- and small-scale volunteer projects.
• Assist in managing on-site volunteer activities to ensure a positive and productive experience.
• Communicate with various stakeholders (via email, phone, and in-person if applicable) to coordinate volunteer programs and projects.
• Maintain and update volunteer records using our volunteer management system to track participation and evaluate impact.
• Support the promotion of volunteer opportunities in coordination with the Volunteer Engagement Recruiter.
• Showcase project outcomes through various communication channels (i.e. partner promotion sites,  feedback surveys, and in-person experience dialogue,  etc). 
• Work with Volunteer Engagement Recruiter to implement recruitment strategy to actively recruit  and retain volunteers, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment while providing necessary support and resources to enhance their involvement.
• Participate in relevant training sessions and professional development activities to develop volunteer management skills and understanding of program offerings.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Experience working with community or volunteer recruitment platforms desired.
• Ability to think creatively and work independently.
• Excellent interpersonal or “customer service” skills in order to foster positive relationships with volunteers and stakeholders alike.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks .
• Proficiency in English required; Spanish language skills a plus.

Work Conditions:

• Ability to walk and stand for extended periods, including during community events, site visits, and outreach activities.
• Ability to lift and carry materials or supplies up to 25 pounds.
• Bending, reaching, and climbing of stairs may be required for some activities.
• Some volunteer projects may involve working outdoors.
• Access to reliable transportation or ability to navigate public transit to various event and hub locations.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

What You'll Gain:

• Hands-on experience in volunteer coordination, community outreach, and nonprofit program support.
• Skills in event planning and logistics, including recruitment, onboarding, and appreciation of volunteers.
• Professional development in communication, relationship-building, and teamwork with diverse groups of people.
• Insight into nonprofit operations and the role of volunteers in supporting community-based work.
• Opportunities for mentorship and networking with professionals in the nonprofit and community development sectors.
• A portfolio of real-world accomplishments, such as supporting events, managing data, or creating volunteer materials.
• Increased cultural competency and understanding of community-driven approaches to engagement.
• A chance to make a meaningful impact by helping build relationships that strengthen neighborhoods and support families.