About the role#
The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is looking for an organized intern to support our events team. This role provides hands-on experience in nonprofit event planning, fundraising, marketing, and community engagement. You will help us raise awareness and critical resources for animals in our care while building your professional skills in a mission-driven environment.
What you'll do#
- Support the planning, preparation, and execution of ARL events.
- Assist with event logistics, including timelines, supplies, setup, and tear-down.
- Help recruit donations for auctions, raffles, and specific event needs.
- Create or support content for social media, the ARL website, and event promotion.
- Communicate with local businesses, sponsors, donors, and community partners.
- Assist with event pages, ticketing software, registrations, and attendee information.
- Help schedule rentals, birthday parties, and other event-related activities.
What you'll need#
- Interest in event planning, fundraising, marketing, nonprofit work, or community engagement.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners.
- Comfort working in a busy environment where priorities shift.
- Availability for some evenings and weekends based on event needs.
- Students pursuing degrees in Marketing, Communications, or Business Administration are encouraged to apply.
Location & details#
- This is an unpaid, on-site internship located in Des Moines, Iowa.
- The schedule is flexible based on your availability and event needs.
- Internships are available on a rolling basis throughout the year.
- Work takes place at ARL locations and occasionally off-site at event venues.
- Physical requirements include standing, walking, and moving supplies in both indoor and outdoor settings.
About Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc.
The Animal Rescue League of Iowa operates as a nonprofit animal shelter based in Des Moines. Founded in 1926, it serves as the largest organization of its kind in the state. The league provides pet adoption, humane education, and spay or neuter services. It also manages animal cruelty interventions and behavior training for thousands of pets each year.
How to get in at Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc.
Applying early to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa gives you a distinct advantage because recruiters review applications before the pile grows. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, so you can submit your materials among the first candidates. Getting your application in early often means your resume is seen while the team is still fresh. You can use Intern Insider to surface the specific recruiters behind these roles, which allows you to reach out directly to ask about the position or a referral. Connecting with a human recruiter rather than just dropping a resume into a queue often improves your response rates. It is a more effective way to show your interest in their mission.
