Special Events Intern

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Special Events Intern supports the planning, coordination, and execution of fundraising and community engagement events for Special Olympics Kansas. This internship provides hands-on experience in nonprofit event management, donor engagement, volunteer coordination, sponsorship fulfillment, and event logistics while helping create meaningful experiences for athletes, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planning and coordinating fundraising and community events.
• Help recruit, organize, and communicate with event volunteers.
• Support sponsor fulfillment, including signage, recognition, and event benefits.
• Prepare event materials, registration packets, auction items, and participant resources.
• Assist with event setup, operations, and breakdown.
• Manage registration tables and provide customer service to participants and guests.
• Help maintain event timelines, checklists, and project plans.
• Assist with collecting event data, participant feedback, and post-event reports.
• Support donor stewardship efforts, including thank-you letters and follow-up communications.
• Coordinate prize, raffle, and auction logistics as assigned.
• Perform general administrative duties to support the Development team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current college student or recent graduate in Event Management, Sports Management, Nonprofit Management, Marketing, Communications, Business, or a related field.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable working evenings and weekends during events.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
• Positive attitude with a passion for serving individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Learning Opportunities

• Event planning and execution
• Fundraising strategy
• Sponsor relationship management
• Volunteer management
• Project management
• Nonprofit operations
• Donor stewardship
• Team collaboration and leadership

Time Commitment

• 10–20 hours per week (flexible around class schedules)
• Additional availability during major fundraising events as needed

Reports To

Development Team

Benefits

• Gain real-world nonprofit and event management experience.
• Build a professional portfolio of fundraising and community events.
• Network with corporate partners, community leaders, and nonprofit professionals.
• Make a lasting impact by supporting more than 5,000 Special Olympics Kansas athletes across the state.