Description

Chicago, Illinois, United States · Unpaid Internship

This internship provides candidates first-hand experience with planning and execution of Make-A-Wish Illinois Signature Events. The Signature Events Fall Intern assists with internal events throughout the internship cycle.

Daily Assignments Include:

• Assisting with silent auction logistics and support with our online bidding system
• Daily work in Microsoft applications such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.
• Assisting with committee meetings 
• Assisting with donor follow-up
• Assisting with event research and solicitations
• Other duties as assigned

Time Commitment: 12-15 hours per week (hybrid work experience), including at least one weekly in-office working day on Thursdays. The cycle runs from June 4th, 2026, through August 6th, 2026. Official start date is on Thursday, June 4th, 2026, with mandatory in-person intern orientation at 9:30am.

Requirements

Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong people skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft applications Excel, Word, and PowerPoint 
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
• Ability to work independently/improvise on the spot
• Desire to contribute to the Make-A-Wish mission

Preferred Qualifications:

• Coursework in Business, Non-Profit Management, Events Management, Marketing or Communications
• Graphic Design experience a plus

Additional Requirements:

• Must be currently enrolled in a college or university academic program
• Must be able to commute to our downtown Chicago office located at 200 W Monroe St, Suite 1801 Chicago, IL 60606 and be onsite weekly on Thursdays
• Minimum age for all internships is 18
• Selected candidates will be asked to participate in a criminal background check

Benefits

An internship at Make-A-Wish Illinois provides a unique opportunity to see how a renowned nonprofit organization runs from the inside. In addition to the learning opportunities outlined in the internship description, interns also have the opportunity to:

• Participate in connection sessions with each member of our executive leadership team
• Participate in skill-building workshops and check-ins lead by Human Resources
• Build working relationships cross-departmentally with staff and fellow interns 
• Contribute to our mission of granting wishes for children with critical illnesses
• Receive recognition from supervisor(s) and staff during cycle closeout celebration