Event and Hospitality Internship - Unpaid

Event and Hospitality Internship Program: Springbrook Foundation – Parent and Family Network Type: Internship (One Semester or One Year) Position Overview The Springbrook Foundation’s Parent and Family Network (PFN) builds meaningful connections among families, partners, and the community through inclusive programs, educational opportunities, and signature events designed for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The PFN relies on sponsorship and donor dollars to activate initiatives, programs, and events; the Event and Hospitality Intern will gain exposure in how to effectively partner to maintain relationships to sustain donor support. The Event and Hospitality Intern will play an integral role in supporting the planning, coordination, and execution of the Network’s signature events. This internship provides hands-on experience in event strategy, hospitality planning, and guest experience development, partner engagement, and on-site event operations. Interns will work closely with Foundation team and external partners to help deliver high-quality, welcoming events that reflect Springbrook Foundation’s mission and values. Event Planning & Execution Support the planning, coordination, and execution of Parent and Family Network signature events, programs, workshops, and community gatherings from concept development through post-event wrap-up Assist with event timelines, task lists, and logistical planning to ensure smooth execution Coordinate specific event elements, including catering, décor, accessibility considerations, registration processes, and hospitality touchpoints Communicate with internal teams, community partners, and vendors to confirm event details, timelines, and expectations Assist with preparing event materials, signage, guest lists, and hospitality supplies Provide on-site event support, including event setup, guest check-in and flow, hospitality and food service stations, partner engagement areas, and event breakdown Observe and assist with troubleshooting in real-time to support a positive and inclusive guest experience Research & Engagement Strategy Research emerging and innovative event themes, formats, and experiences that promote inclusion, accessibility, and meaningful engagement for individuals with I/DD, their families, and community members Analyze best practices in hospitality and guest experience to enhance comfort, accessibility, and overall event impact Support the development of creative strategies to maximize partner and sponsor visibility while maintaining mission alignment Assist in developing ideas that encourage meaningful in-person interaction between members, families, partners, and sponsors Prepare and present research findings and creative event concepts to staff and stakeholders Learning Outcomes By the end of the internship, interns will gain experience in: End-to-end planning and execution of large-scale and small-scale nonprofit events Hospitality planning, including menu considerations, guest flow, accessibility, and inclusive design Sponsorship integration and partner engagement strategies Research, ideation, and presentation of event concepts and engagement strategies On-site event operations, logistics management, and guest experience support Professional communication and collaboration within a nonprofit and community-focused organization Qualifications Must be 18 years or older Demonstrated interest in event planning, hospitality, community engagement, nonprofit work, or related fields Strong interpersonal, organizational, and verbal and written communication skills Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and adapt in fast-paced, live event environments Professional, friendly, and service-oriented demeanor with a commitment to inclusion and accessibility Ability to work independently while also contributing as part of a collaborative team Willingness to work evenings or weekends as required by event schedules Previous experience with events, hospitality, or customer service is encouraged but not required Compensation Stipends are based on program guidelines Academic credit is available with institution approval