Intern, Programs (Summer)

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Best Buddies is the largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families.

Job Title: Intern, Programs Kentucky

Department: State Operations and Programs, Kentucky

Reports to: Lead, Program Manager

# of direct reports: 0

Salary Range: Unpaid, 10-15 hours per week

Position Overview: The Intern, Programs will gain a holistic view of the organization, getting hands-on experience in each Best Buddies program: Jobs, Friendship, Transitions, and Eunie’s Buddies (Family Support), as well as the Development team. The internship will be broken up in 2 week rotations through the office, adding real time value to the work our team does at schools, job sites, events, and more to support the IDD Community. 

This position is ideal for someone interested in business development, non-profit management, event planning (or similar fields), or special education. 

Job Qualifications – Qualified applicants must have:

• • Currently enrolled in college or 2 years’ experience working in nonprofit or relevant field
  • Comfortable engaging with people with IDD
  • Impeccable oral and written communication skills
  • Experience with major social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc. 
  • Basic project and time management skills
  • Exhibit strong initiative, drive for results, and self-assessment skills
  • The ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Must be comfortable working with youth and adults
  • Available to work 10-15 hours per week  for 8 weeks (hours and length of internship can be discussed to meet any specific requirements necessary) 
  • Available to participate in-person in trainings and meetings in Kentucky.

Job Duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Assist in Ambassador Academy Leadership Program

• Assist staff at in-person BBKY events
• Assist in managing state friendship program Salesforce database
• Assist in planning Fall semester events calendar, prep materials 
• Assist with revamping materials (i.e., welcome packet, info materials, etc.)
• Assist in new school recruitment 
• Assist in planning community events and engagements for participants 
• Assist with Social Media (Creating posts, flyers, scheduling posts, etc.)
• Support for Expansion Region as needed

Best Buddies® is an affirmative action employer, in addition to an EOE and M/F/V/PWD/PV employer. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are foundational to Best Buddies International’s core values and help the organization continue to achieve its mission. Here at Best Buddies, our goal is to lead and advocate for a more inclusive world.

Best Buddies offers a comprehensive and generous benefits program that include financial security, health and wellness and time off.