Volunteer Management Intern - Shedd Aquarium

Who: Shedd Aquarium

What: Volunteer Management Intern

This intern will gain experience working on projects for Shedd’s volunteer services department while learning about the operations of a large volunteer program in a non-profit setting.

Summary: The Volunteer Services department works to provide meaningful opportunities for volunteers and interns to contribute to the mission of Shedd Aquarium. The intern will work closely with members of the department to contribute to the growth and success of the program. They will gain exposure to a variety of departments that utilize volunteers, which span almost every area of the aquarium. The intern will do research and help staff to learn more about prospective volunteers, their motivation and how to attract more diverse volunteers from traditional and non-traditional audiences. There will also be an opportunity to learn more about, and utilize, the volunteer management software Volgistics, used by Shedd Aquarium and many other non-profit organizations.

Responsibilities & Duties include:
Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values.

• Act as a friendly and engaging representative to all volunteers and interns entering the Volunteer Services Office. 
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Interact with a diverse group of staff, volunteers, and interns. 
• Assist staff in research and information gathering pertaining to project subjects. 
• Collaborate with Volunteer Services staff and other appropriate departments to review, discuss and propose steps to increase recruitment.
• Prepare documents. 
• Learn specifically about the Guest Engagement Department and their volunteer needs. 
• Other duties as assigned

Potential Projects:
Research and assist in developing a plan for increasing the number and types of volunteers joining the program.
Assist with the implementation of a new Special Events volunteer position.
Assist in communication of policies, procedures, and news to volunteers through : volunteer website updates, Shedd website edit suggestions, Volunteer Office bulletin board, and email edits.
Assist in Learning Department volunteer recruitment and on-boarding by observing and participating in the overall process from updating external posted opportunities to helping conduct orientations.

Qualifications:
Previous internship or work experience interacting with volunteers helpful, but not required. A desirable candidate must be outgoing, work well with teams and independently, be able to multi- task, be detail-oriented, think creatively and effectively manage their time. Candidates should also be comfortable interacting with groups of up to 20. A strong desire to learn about volunteer management and / or Human Resources in a not-for-profit setting.

Desired year in school : Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program.
Desired Majors : Human Resources Management, Communications, Organizational Development or something related.
Time Commitment: Minimum of two to three days a week; 15-20 hours weekly (set schedule will be determined based on intern availability). Some weekend availability preferred.