Community Development Intern Jobs in Troy, MI (NOW HIRING)

Position Title: Intern (Department Assigned Based on Interest and Organizational Need)

Location: Detroit, MI (Hybrid opportunities may be available based on department needs)

Schedule: 10–20 hours per week (Flexible based on academic requirements and department availability)

Duration: Fall, Winter, Spring, or Summer Semester

Launch Your Career While Making a Difference

Are you looking for an internship where your work has a meaningful impact? At Alternatives for Girls (AFG), interns are valued members of our team who gain hands-on experience while supporting programs that empower young women and girls experiencing homelessness, exploitation, and poverty.

As an intern, you'll work alongside experienced professionals, contribute to mission-driven initiatives, and develop practical skills that prepare you for a successful career in the nonprofit, human services, or business sectors. Whether you're pursuing a degree in social work, communications, human resources, marketing, business, or another related field, AFG offers opportunities to learn, grow, and make a difference.

About Alternatives for Girls

Alternatives For Girls (AFG) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping young women and girls experiencing homelessness, exploitation, and poverty become safe, independent, and successful. Through emergency shelter, housing assistance, counseling, prevention services, education, workforce development, and community engagement, AFG empowers individuals to build brighter futures and strengthen our community.

Internship Overview

The AFG Student Internship Program provides students with meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that complement their academic studies. Interns are thoughtfully matched with departments based on their educational background, career interests, skills, and organizational needs.

Throughout the internship, students will have the opportunity to:

• Gain real-world experience in a nonprofit organization.
• Work on meaningful projects that support AFG's mission.
• Receive mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals.
• Develop professional communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
• Participate in meetings, training, and professional development opportunities.
• Strengthen their understanding of trauma-informed and empowerment-based practices.
• Build a professional network while making a positive impact in the community.

Internship Opportunities

Internship placements may be available within:

• Community Engagement & Volunteer Services
• Development & Fundraising
• Marketing & Communications
• Social Work
• Project Management
• Program Services
• Youth Development
• Housing & Shelter Services
• Case Management
• Workforce Development
• Human Resources
• Operations & Administration
• Data & Program Evaluation

Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities vary by department but may include:

• Assist with department initiatives, special projects, and daily operations.
• Support programs and services that advance AFG's mission.
• Conduct research and prepare reports, presentations, or resource materials.
• Assist with event planning, volunteer engagement, and community outreach.
• Support marketing efforts, newsletters, and social media initiatives.
• Help coordinate donations, in-kind resources, and organizational projects.
• Attend meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
• Complete projects aligned with academic learning objectives.
• Collaborate professionally with staff, volunteers, participants, donors, and community partners.
• Maintain confidentiality while demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and ethical decision-making.
• For interns placed in direct service programs, observe and support participant services under supervision using trauma-informed and empowerment-based practices.

Preferred Qualifications

Qualified applicants should:

• Be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university.
• Pursue a degree related to social work, psychology, nonprofit management, communications, marketing, business, human resources, public administration, education, or a related field.
• Demonstrate strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Be dependable, professional, and eager to learn.
• Work effectively both independently and collaboratively.
• Be proficient in Microsoft Office or Google Workspace.
• Demonstrate initiative, curiosity, and a willingness to take on new challenges.
• Maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Have a passion for serving diverse communities and supporting AFG's mission.

What You'll Gain

As an AFG intern, you'll have the opportunity to gain:

• Meaningful hands-on nonprofit experience.
• Professional mentorship and career guidance.
• Exposure to multiple areas of nonprofit operations.
• Leadership and project management experience.
• Professional networking opportunities.
• Resume-building projects and transferable workplace skills.
• Flexible scheduling that supports academic commitments.
• Academic credit (through participating colleges or universities, when applicable).
• A letter of recommendation based on successful performance.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young women, girls, and families throughout Metro Detroit.

Physical Requirements

Depending on the assigned department, interns may be required to:

• Sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Participate in community events, meetings, and volunteer activities.
• Travel locally to AFG program sites or community events as needed.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Alternatives For Girls is an equal opportunity organization committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and trauma-informed workplace environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and are committed to providing equitable opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're passionate about learning, serving your community, and building a career that creates lasting change, we encourage you to apply for an internship with Alternatives for Girls. Join us in empowering young women and girls to become safe, independent, and successful while gaining valuable experience that will support your future career.