About the role#
ArchCity Defenders is hiring a development intern for the Fall 2026 term. This role supports our development team in educating the community about our mission and securing resources to sustain our legal and advocacy work. You will gain hands-on experience in donor relations, grant research, and event planning.
What you'll do#
- Research and nurture relationships with potential individual and corporate donors.
- Update and maintain the development database using Blackbaud.
- Assist with the planning and execution of fundraising events.
- Research and create materials for grant applications.
- Summarize weekly achievements and progress for the Director of Development.
What you'll need#
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM systems.
- A commitment to our mission of racial and economic justice.
- Cultural awareness and sensitivity toward diverse populations.
- The ability to work independently to meet deadlines.
- Current enrollment in a program related to Communications, Business Administration, Marketing, Criminal Justice, or Sociology.
Location & details#
- The role is based in St. Louis, Missouri. While we plan for this internship to be on-site at our office, work modality may shift to remote based on public health requirements or organizational needs.
- This is a paid, part-time position for a duration of 8 to 12 weeks.
- We cannot accept interns who are simultaneously engaged in another internship.
About ArchCity Defenders
ArchCity Defenders is a legal advocacy organization based in St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 2009, the group provides civil and criminal legal representation alongside social services. It focuses on addressing the criminalization of poverty and state violence in communities of color. The organization employs a holistic model that integrates legal work with policy and media advocacy.
How to get in at ArchCity Defenders
Applying to ArchCity Defenders requires a clear understanding of their focus on civil rights and systemic advocacy. Because roles in public interest law are competitive, Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a position is published so you can apply among the first. Getting your application in early ensures your materials are reviewed before the volume of candidates grows too large. You can also use Intern Insider to surface the recruiters behind these roles to reach out directly. Asking a thoughtful question about the organization or requesting a referral often improves your response rate compared to submitting a cold application through a general queue.



