Grant/Development Intern

JOB TITLE: Grant/Development Intern REPORTS TO: Grant Manager SCHEDULE: Varies LOCATION: Pasadena, CA (Hybrid) STATUS: Intern – College Course Credit – 20 hours (Approx.) DRIVER POSITION: Yes

About AbilityFirst: AbilityFirst is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities achieve their personal best. The mission is to look beyond disabilities, focus on capabilities, and expand possibilities. Programs are person-centered and tailored to individual interests and needs, grounded in individual choice, autonomy, and community participation.

About the Role: AbilityFirst's Internship Program offers a unique opportunity for students to gain real-world experience in nonprofit fundraising and development. The Grant Department Intern will support the Development Team by assisting with research, prospecting, data entry, and preparation of materials for grant proposals and reports. Interns will learn how corporate, foundation, and government funding contribute to the mission and impact of AbilityFirst.

This internship is ideal for students pursuing degrees in English, Communications, Journalism, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Political Science, Business, Marketing, Social Work, Sociology, or Psychology. Interns will gain exposure to the full grant cycle—from prospect research to reporting—while collaborating with the Development Team in a supportive learning environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with research on prospective foundation, corporate, and government funding opportunities
• Analyze grant information and identify matches between AbilityFirst needs and grantor goals
• Develop comprehensive knowledge of funding types available from corporations, foundations, and government agencies
• Support preparation of grant proposals and reports by gathering information and drafting sections
• Gather program data and success stories to support grant writing efforts
• Track deadlines, deliverables, and follow-up correspondence with funders
• Help organize and maintain grant records in Salesforce
• Provide administrative support including note-taking, report preparation, and proofreading
• Work with Grant Writer to maintain relationships with grantors
• Uphold commitment as a Mandated Reporter

Qualifications:

• High School diploma or equivalent required
• Currently attending a university or college pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's Degree
• Interest in nonprofit organizations, fundraising, or communications
• Demonstrated writing and research skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Valid Driver's License required
• Successful completion of background check (LiveScan)
• Ability to work effectively with people of diverse backgrounds

Work Environment: Work performed in typical office environment with possibility of hybrid/remote assignments. Occasional travel to community sites or fundraising events may be offered as learning opportunity.