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, Program and Jobs Support

Department: State Operations and Programs

Reports to: Lead Program Manager, Senior Employment Consultant

# of direct reports: 0

Salary Range: Unpaid, 10-20 hours per week

Position Overview: 

The Intern, Program and Jobs Support, will work with the Best Buddies Michigan Team to engage our volunteers and the community in the mission of Best Buddies, specifically the Friendship and Job pillars. This position will split their efforts between assisting our lead program manager in executing our Friendship program and assisting our Senior Employment consultant in executing our Jobs program. 

Job Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in college or 2 years’ experience working in nonprofit or relevant field, preferred 
• Comfortable engaging with people with IDD
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Experience with major social media platforms including Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok
• 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 10-20 hours per week (hours and length of internship can be discussed to meet any specific requirements necessary) 
• Preferred: Located in Southeast Michigan 

Job Duties include, but are not limited to:
 

Programs

• Recruit, onboard, and engage volunteers for both Citizens chapters
• Create and help distribute marketing and promotional materials for program initiatives
• Help plan, organize, and coordinate virtual and in-person events across counties each month. Work to ensure all events are inclusive and accessible, and provide logistical support, such as securing venues and coordinating dates and times
• Assist with general administrative tasks and special projects as needed
• Support ongoing program communication, including social media content
• Identify and develop partnerships with local businesses, volunteer groups, and organizations to expand volunteer sources
• Assist with employer outreach to build partnerships and support job development
• Assist with resume updates and formatting for Jobs participants
• Review Jobs participant interest forms and questionnaires; follow up phone calls with families
• Write handwritten cards for stewardship and relationship building
• Create program marketing materials as needed
   

Learning Opportunities 

• Gain hands-on experience in volunteer management and community engagement
• Build skills in event planning, marketing, and nonprofit operations
• Learn best practices for inclusive programming for adults with IDD
• Network with local businesses and community leaders

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.