Signature Events Intern

Description

This internship provides candidates first-hand experience with planning and execution of Make-A-Wish Illinois Signature Events. The Signature Events Fall Intern assists with internal events throughout the internship cycle.

Daily Assignments Include:

• Assisting with silent auction logistics and support with our online bidding system
• Daily work in Microsoft applications such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.
• Assisting with committee meetings 
• Assisting with donor follow-up
• Assisting with event research and solicitations
• Other duties as assigned

Time Commitment: 12–15 hours per week (hybrid work experience), including at least one weekly in-office workday on Thursdays. This internship begins during the Fall 2026 semester, with a strong preference for candidates who are interested in continuing through the Winter/Spring 2027 semester to support the full Signature Events cycle. 

The Fall cycle runs from September 3rd, 2026, through December 3rd, 2026. Official start date is on Thursday, September 3rd, 2026, with mandatory in-person intern orientation at 9:30am. The Winter/Spring cycle runs from January 7th, 2027, through May 20th, 2027.

Requirements

Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong people skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft applications Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
• Ability to work independently/improvise on the spot
• Desire to contribute to the Make-A-Wish mission

Preferred Qualifications:

• Coursework in Business, Non-Profit Management, Events Management, Marketing or Communications
• Graphic Design experience a plus

Additional Requirements:

• Must be currently enrolled in a college or university academic program
• Must be able to commute to our downtown Chicago office located at 200 W Monroe St, Suite 1801 Chicago, IL 60606 and be onsite weekly on Thursdays
• Minimum age for all internships is 18
• Selected candidates will be asked to participate in a criminal background check

Benefits

An internship at Make-A-Wish Illinois provides a unique opportunity to see how a renowned nonprofit organization runs from the inside. In addition to the learning opportunities outlined in the internship description, interns also have the opportunity to:

• Participate in connection sessions with each member of our executive leadership team
• Participate in skill-building workshops and check-ins lead by Human Resources
• Build working relationships cross-departmentally with staff and fellow interns 
• Contribute to our mission of granting wishes for children with critical illnesses
• Receive recognition from supervisor(s) and staff during cycle closeout celebration