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Event and Hospitality Internship - Unpaid
Administration · Intern
oneonta, ny, usa
Posted 6+ months ago
Event and Hospitality Internship
Program: Springbrook Foundation – Parent and Family NetworkType: 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