Employment Opportunities

About the job

Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras (WYSO) is seeking a seasonal Development Intern. The Development Intern provides general support to the Philanthropy/Development Department. The Development Department creates and implements the organization’s fundraising efforts in both creative and strategic ways. The Development Intern will be working under the supervision of the Development Department on donor relations, community engagement, and events.

What will the intern learn through this internship?

The intern will have the opportunity to work on one or more portfolio-building projects in the development space, including but not limited to: donor relations, grant writing, prospect research, corporate social responsibility, board relations, mission advancement planning, data management and analysis, and events management.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist with maintaining database records
• Conduct research on potential donors, alumni, businesses, and members
• Play an integral role in sponsorship acquisition and coordination for events
• Take part in, and assist with, donor stewardship and solicitation 
• Provide support in sending mailings and invitations, including potential donor engagement opportunities
• Implement marketing strategies and create marketing materials
• Assist with copy editing and preparing of proposals and reports
• Track deliverables and maintain calendars, as necessary
• Assist with special events in preparation and logistics for events
• Plan, present, and execute creative donor engagement opportunities for events
• Depending on availability, provide assistance at events
• The internship position will also include general administrative support, including but not limited to, stuffing envelopes and duties like proofreading, file maintenance, and data entry and reporting.

Desired Skills and Experience:

• Strong computer and research skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including in-person, telephone, and email
• Organized and detail-oriented approach to projects
• Ability to prioritize duties, meet deadlines, and be a team player
• Ability to work independently within the guidelines of a larger project
• Interest and willingness to solicit funds from individuals and businesses, with assistance
• Event planning experience is a plus
• Interest in music and/or youth education is a plus.
  
  
  Education: Undergraduate student currently enrolled for the fall semester
  
  Compensation: $18 per hour
  
  Start Date: May 19, 2026
  
  End Date: August 28, 2026
  
  Time Commitment: 20 hours/week (can be flexible based on college or university needs if internship is required for course credit)
  
  Submission Deadline: May 8, 2026
  
  Application Instructions: Please include a resume and cover letter (PDF preferred) through the Indeed submission portal, or by emailing charles@wysomusic.org.
  
  Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras Inc. is committed to recruiting, retaining, and developing staff from a diversity of backgrounds, including members of racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ people, people with disabilities, people of all socioeconomic backgrounds, people of all nationalities, and veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. We believe that a diverse staff and an inclusive work environment that welcomes a range of perspectives make us stronger and more effective.

Job Types: Part-time, Internship

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Schedule:

• 5 hour shift
• Tuesday to Friday (occasional weekend)

Application Question(s):

• Briefly let us know what interests you in this position with WYSO.

Ability to Commute:

• Madison, WI 53703 (Required)

Work Location: In person