Position Summary

The Special Events Intern supports the planning, coordination, and execution of fundraising and community engagement events for Special Olympics Kansas. This internship provides hands-on experience in nonprofit event management, donor engagement, volunteer coordination, sponsorship fulfillment, and event logistics while helping create meaningful experiences for athletes, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planning and coordinating fundraising and community events.
• Help recruit, organize, and communicate with event volunteers.
• Support sponsor fulfillment, including signage, recognition, and event benefits.
• Prepare event materials, registration packets, auction items, and participant resources.
• Assist with event setup, operations, and breakdown.
• Manage registration tables and provide customer service to participants and guests.
• Help maintain event timelines, checklists, and project plans.
• Assist with collecting event data, participant feedback, and post-event reports.
• Support donor stewardship efforts, including thank-you letters and follow-up communications.
• Coordinate prize, raffle, and auction logistics as assigned.
• Perform general administrative duties to support the Development team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current college student or recent graduate in Event Management, Sports Management, Nonprofit Management, Marketing, Communications, Business, or a related field.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable working evenings and weekends during events.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
• Positive attitude with a passion for serving individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Learning Opportunities

• Event planning and execution
• Fundraising strategy
• Sponsor relationship management
• Volunteer management
• Project management
• Nonprofit operations
• Donor stewardship
• Team collaboration and leadership

Time Commitment

• 10–20 hours per week (flexible around class schedules)
• Additional availability during major fundraising events as needed

Reports To

Development Team

Benefits

• Gain real-world nonprofit and event management experience.
• Build a professional portfolio of fundraising and community events.
• Network with corporate partners, community leaders, and nonprofit professionals.
• Make a lasting impact by supporting more than 5,000 Special Olympics Kansas athletes across the state.