Job Type: Employee, part-time
Salary: $20-25/hour (commensurate with experience)
Reports To: Marketing & Development Manager
Start Date: ASAP Fall 2026
Location: Hybrid, Chicago, IL
Hours: Approximately 20 hours per week
JOB SUMMARY
Kalapriya is seeking an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Development Intern to support the organization's fundraising, donor engagement, and development initiatives.
Working directly with the Marketing & Development Manager, the intern will gain practical experience in nonprofit fundraising, philanthropy, donor stewardship, prospect research, and organizational development.
This paid internship is designed to provide professional mentorship, meaningful project ownership, and exposure to the strategies that sustain a nonprofit arts organization.
ABOUT KALAPRIYA
Kalapriya is a vibrant nonprofit arts organization dedicated to empowering communities through the power of South Asian performing arts. Based in Chicago, Kalapriya serves as a cultural mainstay, drawing in diverse communities from Pilsen, Chinatown, Bronzeville, and beyond, to provide a platform for cross-cultural exchange.
Through transformative dance, music, education, and community outreach, Kalapriya blends traditional and contemporary performances that showcase the beauty of South Asian culture and address the urgent need for dialogue across communities. Kalapriya fosters pride in cultural heritage while building inclusive spaces for all Chicagoans.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Donor Relations & Stewardship
Maintain and organize donor information within Kalapriya's donor management database.
Assist in preparing donor acknowledgment letters, stewardship communications, and giving reports.
Support donor segmentation and targeted outreach initiatives.
Help develop strategies to strengthen relationships with existing supporters.
Prospect Research & Fundraising
Research potential individual donors, corporate sponsors, foundations, and institutional funding opportunities.
Prepare prospect profiles and research summaries to support donor cultivation.
Identify grant opportunities aligned with Kalapriya's mission and programming.
Assist with drafting fundraising appeals, sponsorship proposals, and grant-related materials.
Fundraising Campaigns
Support the planning and implementation of annual fundraising initiatives, including Giving Tuesday and year-end campaigns.
Collaborate on donor-centered email communications and fundraising materials.
Help track fundraising results, campaign engagement, and progress toward development goals.
Events & Community Engagement
Assist with donor invitations, sponsorship recognition, and fundraising activities connected to Kalapriya events.
Support donor cultivation and stewardship before and after special events.
Participate in select performances, cultural programs, and community events to gain firsthand experience in nonprofit arts administration.
Development Operations
Support the maintenance of fundraising calendars, donor outreach schedules, and development records.
Assist in preparing development reports and organizing fundraising data.
Contribute ideas to improve donor engagement, fundraising systems, and organizational efficiency.
QUALIFICATIONS /Required
Current undergraduate or graduate student, or recent graduate, pursuing studies in nonprofit management, marketing, communications, business, public administration, arts administration, or a related discipline.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Proficiency with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office.
Interest in philanthropy, nonprofit development, community engagement, or arts and culture.
QUALIFICATIONS/Preferred
Previous nonprofit experience, familiarity with donor databases, or experience conducting research and developing communications materials.
TO APPLY
Interested candidates should submit a resume and brief cover letter describing their interest in the position and relevant experience to info@kalapriya.org.
Applicants are encouraged to include examples of social media content, graphic design work, or other relevant creative projects, if available.
Email Subject: Development Intern Application
No phone calls, please.
Kalapriya is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve.
