Fundraising & Research Intern (Unpaid)

Posted: 07/22/2025

Fundraising & Research Intern (Unpaid)
Part-Time | 5- 10 hours weekly | In-person with the potential to move into a hybrid arrangement once established  - West Des Moines, IA | Flexible Schedule

About Community Support Advocates:
Community Support Advocates is a 501c3 mission-driven nonprofit serving individuals with mental health diagnoses and disabilities through innovative programming, advocacy, and the arts. 

We’re looking for a detail-oriented and motivated Fundraising & Research Intern to support our development team. This unpaid internship offers hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising, prospect research, and donor data management.The Fundraising & Research Intern will report directly to the Director of Development.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Research individual donors, grant opportunities, corporate giving programs, and foundations

  • Compile, analyze, and organize donor and prospect lists

  • Systematize donor outreach protocols

  • Assist with light database management and data entry

  • Help identify key funding strategies and giving priorities

  • Provide general administrative support related to fundraising projects and events
     

Ideal Candidate:

  • Strong research, analytical, and organizational skills

  • Comfortable using spreadsheets and online research tools such as Instrumental and Foundation Directory Online

  • Interest in fundraising, nonprofit management, or related fields

  • Familiarity with CRM systems such as Bloomerang is a plus, but not required

Commitment:

  • 5–10 hours per week, flexible schedule

  • Minimum 3 month commitment

  • Hybrid work options may be considered
     

What You’ll Gain:

  • Experience in nonprofit development and fundraising strategy

  • Skills in prospect research and data management

  • Insight into donor engagement and philanthropy in Central Iowa

  • Mentorship and networking opportunities

  • Letter of Recommendation upon successful completion of internship
     

To Apply:
Please send your resume and a brief note about your interest to katelyng@teamcsa.org.

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