NYC Development Intern

NYC Development Intern (Unpaid, Summer 2026)

Special Olympics New York

Location: 211 East 43rd Street, New York, NY (In-person)

Schedule: 10–20 hours per week

Dates: May 11 – August 10, 2026

Special Olympics New York is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Development Intern to support our fundraising and events team this summer. This is a hands-on opportunity to gain experience in nonprofit development, corporate partnerships, and large-scale event planning.

The intern will play an active role in supporting key fundraising initiatives, including a citywide walk and our Summer Social—both large-scale events—as well as assisting with early-stage planning and outreach for fall events such as the Polar Plunge and annual gala.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research to identify prospective sponsors and partners
• Assist with outreach efforts to secure sponsorships and in-kind donations
• Support planning and execution of fundraising events
• Help promote events across New York City through outreach and engagement efforts
• Assist with administrative and logistical tasks related to development initiatives

In addition to the responsibilities identified above, may occasionally be requested or required to perform other duties and/or responsibilities.

Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a college or university
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Interest in nonprofit work, fundraising, or event planning
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

This is an unpaid internship. Academic credit may be available depending on your institution.

This role offers valuable, real-world experience supporting impactful events and initiatives that benefit Special Olympics athletes across New York.

Mission of Special Olympics New York: The mission of Special Olympics New York is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-style sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. It empowers athletes to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy while fostering inclusion and community acceptance.

What you'll Gain:

• Practical experience in program operations, outreach, and event coordination
• Skills in research, organization, and community engagement
• Opportunities to meet and collaborate with passionate staff, volunteers, and community partners
• A behind-the-scenes look at how impactful programs are planned and executed

Physical Demands:

Position requires working both standing and sitting. Must be able to lift and carry light loads (5-30 pounds for short distances, approximately one block).

FLEXIBLE HOURS: Occasional weekend/evening duties are available.

About Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 48,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 300 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com and a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.

Special Olympics New York is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, neurodiversity, age, parental status, socio- economic background, military service, or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable law.