Overview
(Hybrid) The Chicago Community Trust Internship Program (Summer 2026) Jobs in Chicago, IL at The Chicago Community Trust
Title: (Hybrid) The Chicago Community Trust Internship Program (Summer 2026)
Company: The Chicago Community Trust
Location: Chicago, IL
Job Description
2026 Summer Internship Program
Internship Title: Summer Intern
Compensation: $20/hour
Schedule: 21 hours/week (Hybrid: 2 days in office, 1 day remote)
Duration: 10 weeks, Summer 2026 (June 9 – August 13, 2026)
About The Internship Program
Our Summer Internship Program offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in philanthropy, community engagement, operations, and organizational strategy. Interns work alongside staff across multiple departments.
Below Is a Brief Overview Of Each Department
Community Impact leads the Trust's grant-making, community partnerships, and systems change strategies. The team prioritizes three focus areas where we have expertise and can move the needle. For households and communities that have faced systemic barriers to building wealth, our goals are to: (1)increase income and financial assets, (2) increase residents' homeownership and home equity, and (3) increase neighborhood investments while minimizing displacement.
President's Officesupports the Trust's executive leadership and plays a central role in organizational strategy, governance, and high-level stakeholder engagement. The team works closely with internal departments, board members, civic partners, and community leaders to advance the Trust's mission and long-term priorities.
Strategic Communicationsshapes the Trust's public voice through storytelling, media relations, digital content, and brand strategy. Interns gain experience translating complex ideas into accessible narratives and supporting campaigns that highlight community partners and impact.
Learning & Impact (L&I) team evaluates the effectiveness of the Trust's strategies and investments. The team uses data, research, and evaluation tools to understand what's working, identify opportunities, and inform decision-making across the organization.
Financemanages budgeting, financial reporting, investment stewardship, and operational compliance for the Trust. Interns gain exposure to nonprofit financial management and the behind-the-scenes systems that keep a philanthropic institution running.
Innovation and Technologysupports the Trust's digital infrastructure, data systems, cybersecurity, and technology-driven solutions that help staff work efficiently and securely. The team also explores new tools and innovations that strengthen internal operations and enhance how we serve partners and communities.
Philanthropic Services/Donor Serviceswork directly with donors to support their philanthropic goals and connect them with community needs. Interns may assist with donor research, stewardship activities, or event preparation.
Applicants will be able to select their department(s) of interest in the application.
What You'll Do
While responsibilities vary by department, interns can expect to contribute to a mix of:
- Project and administrative support for programs, grants, events, or internal operations
- Research and analysis to inform strategy, policy, communications, or financial processes
- Data collection and synthesis to support reporting, evaluation, or storytelling
- Meeting and event support, including note-taking, logistics, and follow-up
- Other duties as assigned
Who We're Looking For
Students who are:
- Curious, motivated, and committed to equity
- Strong communicators (written and verbal)
- Organized and attentive to detail
- Comfortable managing multiple tasks
- Collaborative and eager to learn
- Open to feedback and new ideas
We welcome applicants from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including (but not limited to): public policy, social sciences, finance, accounting, communications, journalism, nonprofit management, urban planning, public health, and related fields.
Work Environment
This Internship Follows a Hybrid Schedule
- 2 days in office
- 1 day remote
Timeline
This posting will close at 4:59PM CST on Friday May 8, 2026.
Applicants are required to select their preferred department internship in the designated section of the application. Please note that applications without a department selection may not be considered for review.
- Application Cycle (4/27 – 5/8)
- Applicant Screens (5/11 – 5/15)
- In Person Interviews (5/18 – 5/22)
- Intern Selection and Notifications (5/18 – 5/29)
- Internship Onboarding (6/9 – 8/13)
Thank you for your interest in joining our mission, we look forward to hearing from you!
Required Experience
Experience and Skills
Recent bachelor's degree graduates, graduate students, or fourth year undergrad students.
Degrees should align with department selected.
Required
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently while staying connected to team goals and expectations.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Reliable access to technology and comfort using remote collaboration tools.
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Professionalism in the workplace.
Preferred Skills(Not Required)
Academic or practical experience related to selected department.
Experience with community engagement, applied research, or evaluation.
Comfort with virtual collaboration tools (Teams, Zoom, shared drives).
Research, writing, or data analysis experience.
Familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) is a plus.
Keyword: (Hybrid) The Chicago Community Trust Internship Program (Summer 2026)
