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Nonprofit Communication Internship Jobs in Michigan

Summer Staff

Hersey, MI

$12.25 - $16/hr

Interns come from a variety of programs including: Social Work, Criminal Justice, Education, Family ... management, Non-profit and business management, communications, etc. Qualified supervision is ...

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Nonprofit Communication Internship information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nonprofit Communication Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nonprofit Communication Intern, you typically need strong writing, research, and organizational skills, often supported by coursework or experience in communications, public relations, or a related field. Familiarity with social media platforms, content management systems, and basic graphic design tools like Canva or Adobe Creative Suite is often required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively help interns stand out. These skills and qualities are vital for crafting compelling messages, engaging stakeholders, and supporting the nonprofit's mission-driven communication goals.

What are some common challenges faced during a Nonprofit Communication Internship, and how can interns overcome them?

Nonprofit Communication Interns often face challenges such as limited resources, tight deadlines, and balancing multiple projects. Interns may need to get creative with available tools and collaborate closely with team members to achieve communication goals. Being proactive in seeking feedback, staying organized, and adapting to shifting priorities can help interns succeed. Open communication with supervisors and peers is key to overcoming obstacles and maximizing learning opportunities during the internship.

What is a Nonprofit Communication Internship?

A Nonprofit Communication Internship is a temporary position where interns assist nonprofit organizations with tasks related to public relations, marketing, and outreach. Interns typically help create content for social media, newsletters, press releases, and websites to raise awareness about the organization's mission and programs. This internship provides hands-on experience in strategic communication, often helping develop valuable skills in writing, digital media, and public engagement. It's a great opportunity for students or recent graduates interested in social impact, advocacy, or nonprofit management.

What would a communications intern do?

A nonprofit communication intern assists with creating and distributing content such as social media posts, newsletters, and press releases to promote the organization’s mission. They may also help with managing media contacts, updating websites, and supporting outreach efforts, often using tools like email platforms and content management systems. The role provides experience in public relations, marketing, and nonprofit operations.

What is the difference between Nonprofit Communication Internship vs Nonprofit Communications Coordinator?

AspectNonprofit Communication InternshipNonprofit Communications Coordinator
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate, no formal certification requiredBachelor's degree in communications, marketing, or related field; experience preferred
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, learning-focused, entry-level tasksFull-time role, responsible for managing communication strategies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by nonprofits for training and developmentUsed by nonprofits for ongoing communication management

The Nonprofit Communication Internship is an entry-level, learning-focused position for students or recent graduates, often unpaid or low-paid. In contrast, the Nonprofit Communications Coordinator is a full-time role requiring relevant education and experience, responsible for executing communication plans. Internships serve as training opportunities, while coordinators handle ongoing communication efforts within nonprofit organizations.

What are popular job titles related to Nonprofit Communication Internship jobs in Michigan? For Nonprofit Communication Internship jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nonprofit Communication Internship jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Nonprofit Communication Internship jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Nonprofit Communication Internship jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Nonprofit Communication Internship job openings:
Infographic showing various Nonprofit Communication Internship job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Communication Associate (Internship)

Michigan-AFL-CIO

Lansing, MI • On-site

$15/hr

Other

Posted 7 hours ago


Job description


Position: Communications Associate Internship

Reports To: Press Secretary or Graphic Designer  
Job Type: Internship/Fellowship 
Work Location: Hybrid (based in Lansing) 
 

POSITION OVERVIEW: 

The Communications Associate is a temporary, educational position designed to provide students with exposure to labor communications work without performing bargaining-unit duties covered by the IBT Local 243 contract. The Communications Associate focuses on learning, observation, research, and administrative support, and does not include any duties regularly or historically assigned to bargaining-unit employees. 

The intern will work under close supervision and will receive hands-on learning opportunities to understand how communication supports the labor movement. Under the direction of the Press Secretary or Graphic Designer, the Communications Associate(s) will assist in developing and executing earned, owned, and digital media strategies for learning purposes. 

TIME COMMITMENT & COMPENSATION 

  • This is a part-time, paid opportunity. 

  • Contribute a minimum of 10 hours per week, though availability for 20 hours per week is preferred. 

  • Interns are expected to work 12-14 weeks on periods consistent with fall, spring, and summer college semester schedules. 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

The Communications Associate internship is structured as a learning and training opportunity and is not intended to replace, supplement, or perform work assigned to bargaining-unit employees covered by the IBT Local 243 collective bargaining agreement. Responsibilities are limited to educational, observational, research, and administrative support activities performed under close supervision. 

Research & Academic Support 

  • Conduct background research on labor issues, public policy topics, or current events to support learning objectives. 

  • Compile research summaries, media scans, or content audits for review by supervisory staff. 

  • Assist with fact-checking and proofreading draft materials for learning and training purposes. 

Administrative & Training-Based Assistance 

  • Perform administrative tasks related to organizing digital files, tracking content calendars, or updating internal databases. 

  • Assist with scheduling, organizing, or documenting communications projects for instructional purposes. 

  • Support the preparation of draft materials (e.g., sample social media posts, mock press releases, or graphics) that are reviewed and finalized by non-intern staff. 

Skill Development Projects 

  • Complete supervised learning projects designed to build writing, editing, graphic design, or digital media skills. 

  • Participate in training exercises using communications tools and platforms in a non-production capacity. 

  • Receive feedback and coaching on drafts and sample work as part of professional development. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • College students (undergraduate or masters) with minimum undergraduate sophomore standing. 

  • Strong writing and editing skills with the ability to produce clear, persuasive, and compelling content per learning objectives.  

  • Willingness to learn and grow communications, digital media, public affairs, political campaigns, journalism and related skill sets.   

  • Ability to manage multiple administrative tasks. 

  • Commitment to strengthen Michigan’s labor movement.  

  • Familiarity with social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X/Twitter, LinkedIn) and digital publishing tools.  

 PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

  •  Experience using digital organizing tools (Action Network, Mobilize, email CRMs, etc.) 

  • Basic graphic design or video editing experience (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, CapCut, etc.)  

Knowledge of Michigan politics, labor unions, or advocacy spaces.  

HOW TO APPLY 

  • Please submit the following to hr@miwdi.org with the subject line “Communications Associate Intern – Your Name”:  A résumé, brief cover letter, 3 writing or digital media samples (social media, press releases, op-eds, or similar from school or work). Include at least one piece of writing that exceeds a page (use an academic paper, if necessary). 

  • Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.  

JUSTICE, EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION - EEOC 

Our organization is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to build diversity among our officers, staff, and members. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ, veterans, and disabled candidates are encouraged to apply. 

ORGANIZATION 

The Michigan AFL-CIO is a non-profit federation of more than forty labor unions representing over 1 million working people across Michigan. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families—to bring economic justice to the workplace and social justice to our state and the nation. Employees of the Michigan AFL-CIO may work in collaboration with one, or all, of our affiliated nonprofit organizations in the Federation, including: 

Michigan AFL-CIO Workforce Development Institute: our affiliated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization was established to combat economic and environmental injustice by connecting the unemployed or underemployed with the training and resources necessary to find gainful employment and transition Michigan to a cleaner, greener economy. 

Michigan AFL-CIO Labor Foundation: our affiliated 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization established to combat economic and social injustice by connecting the working people with resources within Michigan’s charitable, educational and legal systems. 

Michigan AFL-CIO Advocates: our affiliated 501(c)(4) non-profit organization was established to unite labor leaders, policymakers, and the public to educate and advocate for policies, programs, and projects to bring economic justice to the workplace and social justice to communities across Michigan.

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