YMCA Member and Community Engagement Intern

This internship is a 8–12 week experience that offers students and emerging professionals the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.

YMCA Internship

The YMCA Internship Program offers students and emerging professionals the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic, mission-driven environment. Interns will support daily operations and contribute to meaningful projects aligned with their internship focus and learning objectives. In addition to completing routine tasks, interns will collaborate with staff on assigned projects that enhance both personal and professional growth. This internship is designed to build real-world skills, foster development, and provide valuable mentorship all while making a lasting impact within the community.

Job Description: Member and Community Engagement Focus

As a Member and Community Engagement Intern with the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, you’ll play an important role in making members feel valued while also promoting the Y in the community. Working closely with a Y Membership Engagement Director & and team, you will:

• Assist in planning and executing member appreciation events.
• Assist in representing the Y at community events. 
• Contribute ideas for membership retention and acquisition strategies. 
• Contribute ideas for potential Y partnerships and reach out to leads. 
• Assist with social media content creation, including capturing and editing photos and videos for platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. 
• Collaborate with the Intern Advisory Committee and direct supervisor to shape a meaningful internship experience that supports the Y’s member and community engagement goals while aligning with your personal learning interests.

Goals and Expectations

• Complete the full internship duration as outlined in the agreed-upon internship plan and schedule.
• Fulfill all assigned tasks and responsibilities, demonstrating reliability and initiative throughout the program.
• Assist with day-to-day operations and support YMCA staff in delivering high-quality programs and services.
• Actively participate in assigned projects, contributing meaningful input and effort.
• Maintain regular communication with your supervisor, including check-ins, progress updates, and feedback sessions.
• Develop and demonstrate growth in key professional skills such as time management, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Track and document hours and accomplishments for both YMCA records and academic requirements.
• Reflect on your experience and complete any final evaluations or presentations, if applicable, to mark the successful completion of the internship.
• Attend regular one-on-one meetings with your supervisor to discuss progress, goals, and feedback.
• Respond promptly and professionally to communication from your supervisor and YMCA staff.
• Use YMCA computers and devices exclusively for work-related tasks and responsibilities.
• Maintain confidentiality at all times, refraining from sharing any personal or sensitive information about members or co-workers, including contact details, program participation, financial data, or personal matters.
• Complete all required training courses through the YMCA staff training website within 30 days of hire.

Minimum Requirements

• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all socio-economic segments of the community.
• The ability to adapt to change quickly and handle multiple tasks under limited supervision.
• Flexibility to work a variety of hours including days, nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed.
• Successful completion of background screening.
• Acquire and maintain the following certifications: In-person First Aid/CPR/AED (valid 2 years unless otherwise noted) via YMCA, American Red Cross, American Heart Association or American Health and Safety Institute.
• Complete requisite Online Training Modules annually.
• Ability to work with technology such as computers, computer software, tablets, etc.

Physical Demands

1. Ability to stand for extended periods of time. Shifts are typically 4-6 hours.

2. Ability to walk, stoop, kneel, push, pull, climb, and lift/carry a maximum of 50 pounds.

3. Ability to respond to emergency situations quickly and effectively.

4. Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to member needs.

Salary : $16