Development Intern

Mount Vernon • Mount Vernon, VA

10d • Hybrid

About The Position

This position supports the Development team with a primary focus on the organization's annual fundraising auction, one of its signature fundraising events. The intern will assist with auction item procurement, donor and business outreach, event planning, and auction administration while gaining hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising and development. This role offers an opportunity to work directly with the Development team to help create a successful auction that advances the organization's mission and philanthropic goals. This position requires a hybrid schedule where the intern can choose when to be on the estate.

Requirements

• Must be currently enrolled at or a recent graduate of an accredited college or university pursuing a degree in nonprofit management, communications, business, marketing, or a related field
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Interest in fundraising, nonprofit development, or event planning
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
• Willingness to learn and contribute in a fast-paced team environment

Responsibilities

• Assist with planning and executing the annual fundraising auction from procurement through event completion.
• Research and identify potential auction donors, including businesses, restaurants, hotels, attractions, and community partners.
• Assist with outreach and communication to prospective auction donors and sponsors.
• Track incoming auction donations, donor information, item details, and fulfillment requirements.
• Photograph auction items and experiences for use in digital listings, catalogs, and promotional materials.
• Write and edit engaging auction item descriptions, captions, and promotional copy that highlight the value and uniqueness of each item.
• Organize, label, and maintain physical auction items, certificates, images, and related materials.
• Create and update auction listings within the auction platform or CRM system.
• Assist with assembling auction packages, gift baskets, and themed experiences.
• Coordinate bid sheets, signage, item displays, and other auction materials.
• Support the preparation of the auction catalog, including proofreading, formatting, and quality control.
• Assist with event logistics, setup, and post-event organization.
• Provide general administrative support to the Development team as needed.

Benefits

• Hands-on experience managing a nonprofit fundraising auction.
• Opportunity to develop skills in donor relations, fundraising, event planning, marketing, photography, and nonprofit operations.
• Monthly employee events.
• Flexible work schedule.
• On-site library.
• Discount on public event tickets.
• Discount in the Shops.
• Discount at the Inn and General’s Canteen.
• Free parking.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Associate degree