Internship

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) is a prominent not-for-profit organization dedicated to assisting and protecting millions of individuals who have been forced to flee their homes due to violence, conflict, and persecution. Established in 1950, UNHCR was initially created as part of the United Nations' efforts to aid those displaced by World War II. Over the years, the organization has expanded its reach and now operates in 135 countries, providing life-saving assistance such as shelter, food, and water to over 80 million people. UNHCR is recognized for its commitment to safeguarding fundamental human rights, safety, and dignity, and has been honored with two Nobel Prizes for its humanitarian work. The Canadian office plays a crucial role in this global mission, contributing to the organization's overarching goal of protecting and supporting displaced individuals worldwide.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at UNHCR Canada offers a unique opportunity for candidates to engage in the daily operations of the organization while gaining valuable real-world experience. Interns will work closely with a seasoned team of fundraising professionals, taking on meaningful assignments that allow them to apply their educational knowledge to practical situations. The role involves collaboration with the Private Partnerships and Philanthropy (PPH) team, where interns will learn about the cultivation and stewardship of mid-level and major donors through various channels, including in-person interactions, events, emails, and direct mail. This internship is designed to provide hands-on experience in donor communication, relationship building, database management, and administrative tasks, all of which are essential for a successful career in the nonprofit sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the PPH team's efforts, including: assisting with event logistics such as vendor management, venue setup, scheduling, and catering; coordinating personalized touchpoints for mid-value donors, including thank you cards and impact reports; managing the development of donor communication materials, including proposals and thank you letters; conducting research and supporting the drafting and proofreading of written materials; utilizing prospect research tools to create briefings on mid-level and major donors; managing donor records in databases to ensure accurate tracking of gifts; analyzing data for fundraising and marketing efforts; and performing general administrative tasks as needed. This comprehensive set of responsibilities will provide interns with a well-rounded experience in the nonprofit fundraising landscape.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree or be in progress towards a college degree, having completed at least two years of study or having graduated within the last 24 months. A degree in Communications, Marketing, or International Development is considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong attention to detail, excellent oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work efficiently under deadlines. The ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team is essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is required, and experience in database entry or management is a plus. Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory, while French language skills are highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes a completed university degree or a college degree in progress, with at least two years of study completed. Candidates who have graduated within the last 24 months are also eligible to apply. Degrees in relevant fields such as Communications, Marketing, or International Development are particularly advantageous and will enhance the candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
While specific prior work experience is not mandated for this internship, candidates should demonstrate relevant skills and competencies that align with the responsibilities of the position. Interns are expected to have a foundational understanding of nonprofit operations, particularly in fundraising and donor relations, which can be acquired through academic coursework or volunteer experiences. The internship is designed to provide practical experience, making it suitable for individuals at the beginning of their careers in the nonprofit sector.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is a mandatory requirement for this internship. Additionally, proficiency in French is considered a strong asset, as it may enhance communication with a broader range of stakeholders and donors. Candidates who possess bilingual capabilities will have an advantage in this role, given the diverse nature of the organization's operations and donor base.

Additional Notes:
This internship is classified as a family staff member position and is not remote. Interns must be legally eligible to work in Canada at the time of application, which includes Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or individuals holding a valid work permit. The internship is set to commence on July 1, 2026, and applicants who do not receive financial support from an external source will receive an allowance to cover food and local transportation costs, with a maximum allowance of $2168.88 per month for full-time interns. The standard working hours for this position are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.