e-Buddies Program Support Intern

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Best Buddies is the largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families.

Job Description: Unpaid Internship – e-Buddies Program Support
Department: State Operations & Programs
Location: Work From Home
Reports to: Deputy Director  
# of direct reports: 0

Position Overview: As an intern for the e-Buddies program at Best Buddies International, you will play a crucial role in supporting our virtual friendship program that connects individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in meaningful online friendships. This internship offers a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about non-profit work, the disability community, and virtual experiences to contribute to our mission while gaining valuable skills in program management, communication, and community engagement.

Job Duties:

• Assist in overseeing aspects of the community platform, including user engagement, content moderation, member support and fostering a positive online environment.
• Support programmatic responsibilities, including planning and facilitating Zoom events for participants.
• Partnering closely with the e-Buddies Leadership Board by actively participating in decision making processes and effectively distributing tasks. 
• Work together to innovate and enhance our community platform with exciting new features, highlights, and community engagement.
• Utilize basic Microsoft Word, Excel, and Salesforce skills to manage data and communications effectively.

Job Qualifications:

• Strong passion for the non-profit sector and a genuine interest in the disability community.
• Alignment with the mission and values of Best Buddies International.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Access to an accessible laptop and a reliable internet connection for remote work.
• Basic writing and communication skills for effective interaction with participants and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Salesforce (or a willingness to learn these tools).
• Availability to work nights and weekends as needed for virtual events.
• Ability to commit a minimum of 6 hours per week to the internship.

Logistics:

• Duration: 1 year
• Location: Remote (Work from Home)
• Hours: Flexible, with a minimum commitment of 6 hours per week
• Supervision: Interns will be supervised by the e-Buddies Deputy Director provided with guidance and support throughout the internship.
• Training: Interns will receive training on program protocols, communication guidelines, and the use of relevant tools and platforms.
• Unpaid: This is an unpaid internship, designed to provide valuable experience and contribute to a meaningful cause.

The e-Buddies program offers a platform for creating lasting friendships and connections within the disability community, and this internship presents a unique chance to play an essential role in enhancing these experiences. By supporting recruitment, communication, and event facilitation, you will directly contribute to fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion for our participants. As an unpaid intern, you will gain practical skills in program management, communication, and community engagement, while also making a positive impact on the lives of individuals with IDD.

Best Buddies® is an affirmative action employer, in addition to an EOE and M/F/V/PWD/PV employer. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are foundational to Best Buddies International’s core values and help the organization continue to achieve its mission. Here at Best Buddies, our goal is to lead and advocate for a more inclusive world.

Best Buddies offers a comprehensive and generous benefits program that include financial security, health and wellness and time off.