Advancement & Strategic Communication Intern - Summer 2026

Posted: Thursday, 26 February 2026
Valid Thru: Saturday, 28 March 2026
Index Requested on: 02/26/2026 20:17:02
Indexed on: 02/26/2026 20:17:02

Location: Erie, PA, 16501, US

Industry: Healthcare
Occupational Category: 27-3099.00 - Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports and Media
Type of Employment: FULL_TIME

Barber National Institute is hiring!

Description:

Position Summary:

The Advancement/Strategic Communication Intern is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the nonprofit sector while contributing to impactful campaigns. This role offers experience in marketing, public relations, fundraising, and digital communications, with a focus on storytelling and community engagement. The ideal candidate is creative, detail-oriented, and eager to make a difference through effective communication.

What You’ll Bring:

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to adapt tone and style to different audiences.
  • A creative mindset with a keen eye for detail and design.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
  • A passion for storytelling and sharing impactful messages.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a team
  • Eagerness to ask questions and learn about new concepts.
  • Confidence in presenting new ideas clearly and advocating for creative solutions.

What You’ll Have:

  • Currently pursuing a degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Philanthropy or a related field at an accredited institution.
  • Proficiency in social media platforms and knowledge of scheduling tools.
  • Basic graphic design skills using Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar software.
  • Familiarity with email marketing platforms (e.g., Constant Contact) is a plus.
  • Proficiency using Microsoft Office products; not limited to Outlook, Teams, Excel, Word, and more.

A Typical Day May Include:

  • Developing and implementing marketing and communication strategies to promote Barber National Institute’s mission, services, and events.
  • Creating and editing content for social media, email newsletters, blogs, podcasts, and the organization’s website.
  • Designing marketing materials such as flyers, brochures, and digital graphics.
  • Researching industry trends, target audiences, and best practices to inform campaigns.
  • Monitoring and analyzing social media and email metrics to provide recommendations for improvement.
  • Supporting the planning and execution of special events, including promotional materials and logistics.
  • Engaging with staff, individuals, and families to collect testimonials and success stories.
  • Assisting with media relations by drafting press releases and managing media contact lists.
  • Maintaining and organizing digital assets, including photos, videos, and marketing collateral.
  • Collaborating with external donors, foundations, and sponsors.

Who is Barber National Institute?

The Barber National Institute is a non-profit committed to its mission of providing the highest quality services for children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities or behavioral health challenges and their families. Since our founding in 1952, we have evolved into a multi-faceted organization serving more than 6, 200 individuals annually with a wide range of educational, vocational, residential and behavioral health programs.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. If you need an accommodation to apply, please contact HR. EOE

Any consideration of the background check will be an individualized assessment based on the applicant or employee’s specific record and the duties and requirements of the specific job.

Responsibilities:

Please review the job description.

Educational requirements:

  • high school

Desired Skills:

Please see the job description for required or recommended skills.

Benefits:

Please see the job description for benefits.

Apply Now