Institute of Politics

Organization Overview:
Disability Lead is a groundbreaking non-profit organization that is pioneering disability inclusion at the decision-making tables of power and influence in the Chicago region. As the first program of its kind nationwide, Disability Lead focuses on enhancing the presence of leaders with disabilities within the civic landscape.

Internship Summary:
Step into a meaningful role as a Program Intern at Disability Lead, where you will actively contribute to the management of various programs and internal initiatives. Join our collaborative and dedicated team, gain exposure to non-profit operations, and play a vital part in fostering disability inclusion and leadership.

Responsibilities:
Program Support (60%):
- Assist in the coordination of internal and external events, including virtual gatherings and select in-person events in Winter and Spring 2024.
- Provide event and logistical support to the immersive leadership development program
- Engage in outreach efforts to forge partnerships with new organizations and non-traditional collaborators to expand the reach and impact of Disability Lead.

Database and Administrative Support (30%):
- Utilize tools like Neon to update and maintain email contacts for communication efforts.
- Proofread fundraising proposals, donor reports, and marketing materials.
- Facilitate general meeting logistics, including scheduling and note-taking.
- Analyze civic advancements and refine database organization.
- Ensure accurate and up-to-date membership information for Disability Lead's Fellows and Members across various platforms.

Research or Other Projects Assigned by Staff (10%):
- Research new civic engagement opportunities for Fellows and Members.
- Compile and organize resources that provide valuable insights for Fellows and Members.
- Assist in generating materials and collateral related to board committee activities and internal projects, such as the antiracism transformation team initiatives.

Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong understanding of Chicago's civic engagement landscape and the non-profit sector.
- Proficiency in research, data compilation, and presentation of findings.
- Exceptional writing skills tailored for business communications.
- Detail-oriented with excellent proofreading and organizational capabilities.
- Effective verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
- Comfortable with independent work and confidentiality.
- Personal experience with disabilities preferred.
- Competency in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Pro, GSuite, and PowerPoint.

Location and Modality:
Our office is located at 567 W. Lake Street, Suite 1150, Chicago, IL 60661.

About the Supervisor:
Robin Burnett is passionate about creating interdisciplinary programs that foster individual and collective learning and transformation. With over a decade of experience, she has founded innovative initiatives, developed cross-disciplinary curricula, and supported unique intercampus departments, including at Northwestern University. Robin's background includes internships and volunteer work with Chicago arts organizations, participation in cross-border poetry readings, and publications in various journals. She resides in Chicago with her husband and their dog, Kaju.