Main objective
To support the implementation of our current Fundraising strategy.
This role preferably requires experience in fundraising, events organisation and communication, and reports to ReFOCUS CEO.
hours:
20 hours per week
Duration:
6 months minimum
Location:
Remote but based in New York due to our fundraising events taking place there.
Benefits:
Being part of a wonderful team and helping our mission to succeed. Mentoring support & training related to the role and your development interests. There is no financial compensation associated with this role. This role can be accounted as an official internship.
Purpose
Join us in our mission to create a global network of media labs dedicated to equipping asylum seekers and recognised refugees with modern media creation skills. At ReFOCUS, we are committed to providing a platform for these talented individuals to showcase their original work, share their stories, and pursue professional careers in the media industry. We believe in empowering and amplifying their voices to foster understanding and create positive change in society.
This internship is an opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause and gain valuable experience in the nonprofit sector as well as in in depth understanding of issues related to people on the move. Although it is an unpaid position, we offer flexibility in scheduling to accommodate both your availability and our organisation’s needs.
Responsibilities
As Fundraising Intern, your primary focus will be on preparing and executing fundraising events. You will have hands-on responsibility for nearly every aspect of event development, including:
- Researching and identifying potential event venues in New York (and other U.S. cities as needed).
- Mapping and approaching businesses for sponsorships, in-kind donations, and event support.
- Developing promotional strategies and materials (digital and print) to ensure strong visibility.
- Coordinating logistics: guest list management, vendor negotiations, equipment and catering arrangements.
- Supporting digital promotion and outreach, including social media, newsletters, and local networks.
- Assisting in creating event budgets, tracking expenses, and preparing financial reports.
- Preparing materials for corporate sponsors, donors, and participants.
- Working closely with the ReFOCUS team to ensure the event reflects the mission and values of the organization.
- Contributing to post-event follow-up: thank-you letters, reporting, and evaluating outcomes.
Qualifications & Skills
- Must be based in New York City (remote work, but with strong knowledge of the NYC landscape).
- Currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from, a program in Event Management, Fundraising, Nonprofit Management, Communications, Media Studies, or related field.
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with ability to handle many aspects of event planning simultaneously.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; comfortable reaching out to businesses and sponsors.
- Creative and resourceful in identifying event opportunities, venues, and partnerships.
- Strong writing skills (for promo materials, sponsorship requests, donor communication).
- Familiarity with digital marketing and event promotion tools (social media, Canva, Eventbrite, Mailchimp, etc.) is a plus.
- Previous experience in event planning, fundraising, or partnerships is desirable.
How to apply
Send an email with your CV to info@refocusmedialabs.org and we will reply shortly.