Communications and Events Intern (hybrid/remote)

Highstead Foundation in Redding, Connecticut, is recruiting a full-time Communications and Events intern. This is a hybrid remote/in-person position, with the expectation that the intern works from the office in Redding, CT, one day/week. The Conservation Intern will support Highstead’s Conservation Program for 14 weeks from September 3 to December 6, 2024. 

Highstead is a regional non-profit conservation organization dedicated to inspiring curiosity and building knowledge about plants and wooded landscapes in order to enhance life, preserve nature, and advance sound stewardship practices. We envision a healthier, more livable world for all by working with our partners to responsibly conserve the land that sustains us and to steward our natural spaces, resources, and communities thoughtfully and inclusively. 

Overview:
This position’s major focus will be supporting the Regional Conservation Partnership (RCP) Network Gathering, an in-person conference for over 200 regional conservation practitioners. The conference will be held at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst on November 14. Attendance at the event is mandatory.

The Communication and Events Intern will be responsible for the following:

RCP Network Gathering tasks:

• Aid in the creation and management of event planning documents 
• Assist in speaker tracking, support, and communications
• Create virtual event materials, including programs and attendee evaluations 
• Support on-line registration and reporting
• Outreach to key partners and audiences to engage participation in the event 
• Assist in the creation of in-person meeting materials such as agendas, event signage, and name tags

General Conservation Program tasks:

• Work with staff to develop content for e-newsletters, social media, and websites 
• Support Conservation Staff with initiatives, including keeping notes at meetings and updating reports
• Assist in the development, implementation, and outreach of program meetings, webinars, and other events

Qualifications: 

• Strong interest in event planning and implementation
• Proficient in Microsoft Suite, graphic design software (Canva or Photoshop), and social media platforms. 
• Excellent and effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to convey work to a variety of audiences through email, presentations, meetings, and online formats 

What you’ll gain from us:

• Hands-on experience in event planning and management
• Develop a wide range of skills, including communication, organization, and problem-solving
• An opportunity to learn, grow, and ask questions
• Career networking opportunities

What we need from you:

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree or equivalent lived experience
• An interest in conservation and protecting the environment
• Ability to express new ideas and visual concepts 
• Curiosity, ingenuity, perseverance, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
• A collaborative spirit who enjoys both independent and group work
• Ability to work one day/week in Redding, CT