Community Relations Internship, American Cancer Society

The Great West Division of the American Cancer Society is seeking applicants for its Community Relations Internship Program. Interns will join the team of Portland Metro Market staff responsible for more than two million dollars in annual fundraising. The Community Relations Intern will work with the Community Relationship Management (CRM) Team on projects that directly influence the outcome of 25 Metro Market events.

This project-based opportunity is ideal for students interested in the areas of income development, business management, sales and public relations. It is an excellent opportunity for individuals wishing to gain experience in fundraising, event planning, grassroots marketing, and the non-profit sector.

This position offers the opportunity for a dedicated individual to make a significant contribution to the American Cancer Society’s goal of eliminating cancer as a major health concern.

Community Relations Intern: (8-16 hours/week – unpaid, may be used for credit)

Tasks may include, but are not limited to: volunteer recruitment, creation of outreach materials, community canvassing, sponsorship recruitment, data entry & spreadsheet management, and general administrative support.

Skills required of this intern are excellent written and verbal communications skills and a working knowledge of computers. Applicants should be outgoing, self-motivated people who are comfortable working independently and as part of a team. Creativity is a must; there is a lot of opportunity to contribute new ideas and systems!

Interns will be expected to report to the American Cancer Society office at 0330 SW Curry Street in Portland weekly (schedules are negotiable according to availability of intern and ACS staff). Interns will also be asked to work in communities in and around Portland and should provide their own transportation.

Supervision, including an in-depth entry training and weekly check-ins will help interns develop skills related to income development such as recruitment techniques, volunteer retention, publicity, computer competency and professional relationship-building.

Intern will need to undergo a background check before hire in accordance with American Cancer Society policies.

Possible tasks include but are not limited to: - Attending strategizing meetings with staff and lead volunteers - Door-to-door canvassing (businesses only) - Calling local businesses, schools and volunteers (including some cold-calling) - Preparing outreach materials - Preparing mail merges and mass mailings - Helping prepare and pitch sponsorship proposals - Excel data entry and maintenance (contact lists and accounting info) - Internet research - Logistical planning and oversight - Writing and editing letters, proposals and other business documents

The Community Relations Internship program is a year-round program and applications will be accepted at any time. This is an unpaid internship, but may be used for school credit. A minimum commitment of 3 months is recommended. High school juniors and seniors and college students are encouraged to apply. Please e-mail resume and brief cover letter to:

Karla Signs Community Relationship Manager American Cancer Society [email protected] 503-795-3912