UWTVA - Special Projects Internship

This internship exposes interns to a diverse array of opportunities that United Way is engaged in. A special projects intern will become familiar with many aspects of the non-profit sector. There will, however, be a focus on working on initiatives that address identified community needs, including transportation, access to mental health services and food insecurity, for example. Grant writing, resource development and project implementation will be key responsibilities.

Based on a 450-hour commitment, this internship meets UMFs Rehabilitative Services Departments internship requirements. The internship and its responsibilities and associated hours may be modified to meet internship and practicum requirements of fewer hours (to a minimum of 135).

Responsibilities:

• Orientation and training

• Target outcome: Attend one orientation session
• Target outcome: Identify potential professional development opportunities to acquire and ask for support. (Example: Excel training; public speaking; etc.)

• Grant research and writing
  • Target outcome: Become familiar with United Way current, past, and potential grant sources. Identify at least 10 new sources of funding for both designated and undesignated grants.
  • Target outcome: Write at least 3 grants and submit them to identified funder.
• Sponsorship research
  • Target outcome: Research potential local, regional, and national sponsorship opportunities.
  • Target outcome: Develop a premiere corporate sponsorship program
  • Target outcome: Submit requests to at least 4 sponsors
• Handbook development for initiatives/events
  • Target outcome: Using the existing Great Charity Auction Handbook as a guide, create at least 3 handbooks that outline the steps to successfully implement existing United Way projects.
• Data collection, input, and research
  • Target outcome: Assist with the data collection and input for current and potential projects including:
    • Thank-a-thon (Modeled after United Way of Eastern Maine)
    • Teen Days of Caring
    • Packs for Progress
  • Leadership and Growth Through service

Develop a one page report for each project that outlines accomplishments and suggests ways to improve data collection and project implementation.

• Return on Investment (ROI)

Target Outcome: Research methods for determining ROI and analyze one United Way initiative. Present findings to the United Way Board of Directors at a regularly-scheduled meeting. Examples of programs include the Community Energy Challenge and Western Maine CA$H Coalition.

• Special projects as assigned

Expectations:

• Attend community meetings (such as the Franklin Resource Collaborative) as assigned and available.
• Become familiar with United Way Community Investment process and United Way Community Partners to have a better understanding of community needs, and what United Way supports.
• Provide a written one-page report to site supervisor weekly.
• Meet at a scheduled time for a one-on-one meeting with site supervisor at least every two weeks (frequent interaction will also occur at the United Way office, FVN meetings, and other venues throughout the community).
• Ask questions as needed so site supervisor can provide appropriate support.
• Be passionate about meeting United Ways mission and goals

Qualifications:

• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Ability to talk with a variety of persons/groups
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
• Good research and organizational skills
• Good computer skills
• Familiarity with social media
• Attention to detail

Application Process: If a University of Maine at Farmington student applications are made through UMFs Partnership for Civic Advancement. All other interested parties may contact United Way directly at 207-778-5048 or email [email protected].