Design Intern

ChildServe • Johnston, IA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Design Intern will assist ChildServe’s Foundation department with runway and design support for its annual gala, Bubble Ball. The internship offers a current high school or college student an opportunity to learn about runway coordination and design creation in the contexts of fashion and nonprofit fundraising. Bubble Ball is ChildServe’s signature gala and features a themed runway show with volunteer designers’ Bubble Wrap creations, a gallery of stationary designs, dinner, musical entertainment, performances, and other surprises. Bubble Ball 2027 is scheduled for April 3, 2027, at the Iowa Events Center.

The internship involves 8–10 hours per week during standard business hours, with flexibility to accommodate classes and other work schedules. Work will take place at Runway Director Sarah Dornink’s studio on 42nd Street in Des Moines. The opportunity may be suitable for applicants seeking course credit, portfolio content, or fulfillment of academic internship requirements in the fall and/or spring semester. The posting describes the fashion costuming work as taking place at the studio in the Des Moines metro from January 4 through April 2, 2026.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled as a high school or college student.
• Experience with crafting, sewing, and/or working with textiles.
• Interest in fashion design, costuming, and runway coordination.
• Ability to work independently as a self-starter.
• Flexibility, creativity, and organizational skills.
• Interest in nonprofit management and community development.
• Writing and composition ability.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English through reading, writing, and speaking.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Runway Director Sarah Dornink to develop runway and specialty-act designs from planning through execution.
• Assist with garment curation and sequencing.
• Help create designs through bedazzling, beginner-friendly sewing, fringing, and general costume design.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed