By Jamie Canty, Development Intern
What do you learn as an intern with a Northern Virginia nonprofit? I came to Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS) as an Intern in fall 2023, knowing I would gain valuable experience. The Civic Fellows program at George Mason University and my experience working at the federal level of advocacy was my foundation. My position as an Intern with NVFS provided experience at the local level, and in this blog, I will tell you about the four things I learned as a Development Intern with NVFS.
Graphic Design and Technology Skills
A lot goes on behind the scenes at a local nonprofit. Staff and volunteers perform many tasks that other organizations may outsource to firms and agencies. Both staff and volunteers often wear multiple hats, and each day is unique.
A typical day may include designing social media content, flyers, marketing pieces, or informational guides. Database management is also key, and I learned new software. A solid base of technology skills is not only a cornerstone of success for a nonprofit but also for my future.
Event planning brings together all the skills with a common goal. I quickly learned that my new skills also helped me build a sense of community.
A Sense of Community
One way a nonprofit intern meets community members is through events. These events allow the intern to engage with volunteers, staff, community leaders, and neighbors.
NVFS maintains an active calendar of events across the region that they serve. Here are some of the events that I participated in planning during my internship:
- Volunteer Appreciation Week
- Annual Holiday Toy Drive
- The NVFS 100-Year Celebration
Each event had diverse planning needs and goals, but I learned that working together to support clients in Northern Virginia not only creates an inspiring atmosphere but also forms very effective teams.
Empathy & Understanding
Helping NVFS support our Northern Virginia community and meeting some nonprofit clients, helped me increase my understanding and empathy. I listened to client stories, learned about their struggles, and celebrated their victories.
While working on the annual toy drive, I had the opportunity to provide hands-on support and talk with the volunteers. I will genuinely remember their stories of volunteerism and the feeling of my work supporting families across the Northern Virginia region, making a difference.
I also had the opportunity to learn about the NVFS Training Futures program which helps train folks for living-wage, professional careers. Helping clients prepare for their new future increased my understanding of how skills increase career potential. I soon realized that assisting clients in creating their new future was also helping me make my own future successful.
Business Connections & Networking Skills
Sure, an internship looks good on a resume. But, an intern at a nonprofit quickly sees that the experience is so much more.
During my time with NVFS, I gained many practical skills that will help my career development. I learned networking skills and made connections in the business world. I expanded my technology skills and learned how all the pieces fit together for success.
I also enjoyed volunteering and helping those in the community. Reflecting on my time with NVFS, I realize that I was given the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of many.
An internship and volunteering at a nonprofit are not always easy, but my time as an NVFS Development Intern was definitely worth it.
Jamie Canty was a Development Intern for NVFS. Currently, she is a graduate student at George Mason University studying Public Policy. At Mason, she is actively involved in the Office of Student Involvement, working with over 400 organizations. Jamie also enjoys nature walks and reading.