About the role#
This internship focuses on development, fundraising, and event management within the Dallas Zoo. Interns gain hands-on experience by supporting fundraising campaigns and special donor events, including the Zoo To Do annual fundraiser. You will work closely with program managers to assist with donor stewardship, solicitation letters, and event production while learning about cross-departmental planning and donor management systems.
What you'll do#
- Assist with the planning and execution of fundraising, donor, and member cultivation events.
- Collaborate with event chairs, committees, volunteers, staff, and vendors.
- Support the advancement team with event production tasks, including food and beverage arrangements, vendor management, and event setup and teardown.
- Communicate regularly with Zoo leadership, staff, and stakeholders.
- Serve as an ambassador for the Dallas Zoo.
- Utilize project management software to track event planning and collateral review.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment as a junior, senior, or master's student, or graduation within the last year.
- Availability of 20-24 hours per week for up to 12 weeks, including holidays and weekends.
- Strong observational skills and the ability to communicate clearly and concisely in writing and orally.
- Valid US driver’s license and reliable transportation.
- Eligibility to work in the U.S. at the time of the internship.
- Ability to perform physical tasks such as standing, walking, and lifting up to 50 pounds, often in inclement weather.
- Successful completion of a background check and a negative TB test prior to the start date.
Location & details#
- Location: Dallas, Texas.
- Term: Fall 2026 (starting September 22, 2026).
- This is an unpaid internship. The Dallas Zoo does not provide housing, transportation, or a stipend.
