Research And Development Internship Jobs in Montclair, NJ

Company Description:

Preserve Shady Rest is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that is dedicated to promoting the history and preservation of Shady Rest Country Club. As the first Black-owned country club in the United States, Shady Rest was a major hub for 1920s jazz entertainment and the residence of John Shippen Jr., the first American professional golfer. The organization is committed to historical preservation, community engagement, and advancing opportunities in golf.

Role Description:

Preserve Shady Rest is seeking a Donor Giving & Development Intern to support fundraising efforts, donor relations, and philanthropic initiatives. This part-time, unpaid, hybrid internship (primarily remote with in-person event support in Scotch Plains, NJ) is ideal for students or young professionals interested in nonprofit development, fundraising, revenue generation, sports philanthropy, or historical preservation. This role provides hands-on experience in fundraising, donor stewardship, event planning, and nonprofit management.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Assist with fundraising campaigns to support the preservation of Shady Rest and its community initiatives.
• Lead giving program, helping to engage donors committed to long-term financial contributions.
• Research and identify potential donors, sponsors, and grant opportunities.
• Maintain donor records and track contributions using donor management tools.
• Help coordinate special events, fundraising campaigns, and donor appreciation initiatives.
• Work alongside marketing team to develop donor outreach materials and fundraising content.
• Draft donor communications, including acknowledgment letters, newsletters, and funding proposals.
• Ensure that all fundraising activities align with the organization's values and mission.
• Assist in historical research and documentation to support storytelling for donors.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

We encourage applicants from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. You do not need to meet every qualification to apply.

• Interest in fundraising, nonprofit development, donor relations, sales, marketing, history, sports, or community engagement.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
• A motivated, dependable, and self-directed approach to work.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating with a team.
• Interest in building relationships with donors, sponsors, community members, and organizational partners.
• Ability to engage respectfully and effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Willingness to learn and take initiative.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in fundraising, sales, customer service, donor relations, or nonprofit work.
• Familiarity with CRM or donor management platforms.
• Experience with grant writing, sponsorship proposals, or business development.
• Interest in pursuing a career in nonprofit development, fundraising, sales, client relations, museums, sports administration, or community organizations.
• Experience with social media, email marketing, or communications.
• Knowledge of golf or golf history is a plus, but not required.
  

What You Will Gain:

This internship provides an opportunity to:

• Build real-world fundraising and development experience.
• Develop skills in donor outreach and relationship management.
• Learn how nonprofit organizations generate revenue and build sustainable support.
• Gain exposure to grants, sponsorships, philanthropy, and major-gift fundraising.
• Develop professional writing and communication skills.
• Expand your professional network through donors, sponsors, community leaders, and nonprofit professionals.
• Contribute to the preservation of an important piece of Black history, golf history, and American history.
• Build meaningful experience that can strengthen your resume and prepare you for future opportunities in nonprofit, fundraising, sales, sports, museums, or community organizations.

EEO Statement:

Preserve Shady Rest, Inc. provides equal opportunity in any employment, membership, or volunteer settings. The organization complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, disability, or veteran status. The Shady Rest supports and services all people in its effort to promote history and service its community.