Communications Intern

About New FuturesNew Futures is a dynamic local nonprofit with a unique approach to fighting inequity: We believe fiercely that shorter-term credentials – associate degrees or professional certifications – are an effective launch point toward rewarding, fulfilling careers. New Futures invests in our scholars with a deliberate combination of scholarships, academic and career advising, access to transformative professional networks, and a lot of heart as they jumpstart careers they love in high-growth fields that will lead to financial security and more equitable futures for all.Since our inception, we have worked with over 776 Scholars and awarded over $6.5 million in post-secondary scholarships. Having strengthened our approach, we are growing our team to build capacity, expand our impact, and sustain our growth.THE POSITIONThis full-time internship offers a valuable opportunity for individuals with aspirations to work in communications, marketing, social media management, or related fields. In this role, you’ll contribute to the overall execution of New Futures’ communications strategy, aiding in all aspects of content creation for events, fundraising campaigns, and audience engagement. Cross-departmental collaboration, including with members of New Futures senior leadership team, will give you a broad view of the organization and prepare you to engage with key stakeholders as you develop content. By joining our team, you will gain invaluable hands-on experience and make a tangible impact in advancing our organization's goals.This full-time role reports to the Director of Development and Communications and is a member of the Development and Communications Team.The following duties and responsibilities are meant as a general guideline for the type of work the intern will do. Specific deliverables and tasks will be assigned based on the intern’s skill set and experience, and are subject to change on that basisPOTENTIAL JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:CONTENT CREATION: 80%Social MediaDraft original content or repurpose existing third-party content for posting on New Futures’ social media channels including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or for sending via email/MailchimpDevelop engaging content for social media use as well as for specific campaigns, such as the 2025 Gala and the Giving Tuesday/End of the Year CampaignConduct 1:1 interviews and engage with the New Futures community to gather quotes and other information to feature in our contentSeek and receive approval of drafted content from the Communications Manager and/or Director of Development and CommunicationsEnhance postings by adding approved graphics or photos created in Canva or other similar platformCollaborate with colleagues to provide thought partnership and improve social media practicesExternal Emails and CommunicationsAssist with external emails sent via Mailchimp including quarterly newsletters, campaign emails, emails for programs, and specific audience segmentsProvide thought partnership to Communications Manager to develop an editorial calendar for newly launched blog series, including coordinating content creation with featured bloggersInternal CommunicationsHelp create or update brand-compliant templates for organization-wide use. Assets may include letterhead, presentation slide decks, newsletters, email, social media, signature line graphics, etcProcess internal requests for communications support via Monday.comPrepare analytics reports via Hootsuite for internal distribution to help influence future communications effortsADMINISTRATIVE: 15%Attend weekly check-ins with the Director of Development & Communications and/or Communications ManagerParticipate in bi-weekly Dev/Comms team meetings and quarterly staff meetingsCollaborate closely with the Communications Manager on assigned duties and ongoing projects as neededOTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED: 5%Job Qualifications & RequirementsA genuine belief in our organization's mission and a passion for amplifying the voices of our communityDemonstrate initiative and a proactive approach to completing tasks to the best of their ability. Ability to seek clarification when expectations are unclear and willingness to ask for help when needed. Adapts quickly to changing priorities and thrives in a fast-paced environmentPossess a creative mind with an eye for detail. Ability to think creatively while adhering to brand guidelines, ensuring consistency and quality in all communication materialsExceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft engaging and impactful content. Able to tailor messaging for various communication platforms and target audiencesExperience and proficiency in using various communication platforms and social media channels to engage with audiences effectivelyFamiliarity with content creation and management tools such as Canva, Hootsuite, or similar platforms to create and schedule contentPossesses a basic understanding of graphic design principles and can create visually appealing content to enhance communication materialsExcellent organizational and time management abilities, enabling efficient handling of multiple tasks and meeting deadlinesStrong attention to detail, with the ability to proofread and edit materials for accuracy and consistencySkilled in conducting research and synthesizing information into concise and engaging contentAbility to work independently while also contributing effectively in a team environment. Strong interpersonal skills to interact with diverse stakeholdersDemonstrate a positive attitude, enthusiasm, and eagerness to learn and take on new challengesProficiency in Google Workspace tools such as Docs, Sheets, and Slides for creating and collaborating on documentsPreferred QualificationsCurrently enrolled in a degree program in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field is strongly preferred. A solid educational background provides a foundation for understanding effective communication strategies and techniquesBasic understanding of SEO principles and keyword optimization to enhance content visibilityKnowledge of current trends and best practices in communications and digital marketingPrevious experience working at education, youth development, or equity-focused organizationsWhat Else You Should KnowThe position is full-time (32-36 hours per week) and is based in Washington, DC. We are fully hybrid, currently requiring staff to travel to our H Street NE office at least once a month.We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to racial and gender equity. We make a particular effort to recruit candidates who identify as Black, Indigenous, people of color, and gender non-binary to apply for open positions.Have a passion for our mission but don’t check all the boxes? We still want to hear from you! Too often, excellent candidates elect not to apply for roles if they don’t meet all the requirements listed in a job description–this is especially true for women and candidates of color. We encourage you to apply even if your experience is not a 100% match with the position! New Futures believes in helping its staff grow; in return, you help us grow into a stronger, more inclusive organization.To Apply: We also strive to ensure the hiring process, including the submission of the application meets your needs. Please submit a resume and cover letter to our career package here. If there is an accommodation needed during the application or hiring process, please email Admin@newfuturesdc.org, as well. The start date for this position is January 29, 2025 - May 2, 2025New Futures Intern Benefits SummaryHybrid InternPaid Stipend:$3,00032-36/ hours per weekPayment ScheduleJanuary (partial)$500February$1,000March$1,000April (partial)$500New Futures Holidays (Closed):Martin Luther King, Jr. DayPresident's Day Memorial Day JuneteenthIndependence DayLabor DayIndigenous People’s DayVeterans DayThanksgiving Day and the day after ThanksgivingReimbursements/Subsidies:New Futures provides a parking and travel stipend based on the internship roleNew Futures provides interns a one-time stipend of $50 for work-from-home and office set suppliesAdditional Amenities and Perks:LinkedIn Learning - access to over 16,000 training modules, courses, and certificates1 key fob for 24/7 access to the New Futures office buildingGym and Bike Room with 24/7 AccessTeam Lunches paid by New FuturesSummer Fridays between Memorial and Labor Day (Summer Interns Only)New Futures issued Microsoft Surface to conduct workIf there are open opportunities in the new year, there could be potential to become a full-time staff role at the conclusion of this internship OR continuation of your internship for another semesterFor more details on New Futures’ comprehensive intern benefits, please email Admin@newfuturesdc.org.Powered by JazzHRApAxXvv7Oi