Volunteer Outreach and Engagement Intern

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc. is currently seeking a volunteer outreach and engagement intern to assist the events team for the upcoming 2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Company Description

The National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization based in Washington, DC, is dedicated to promoting the beauty of nature and international friendship through year-round programs, events, and educational initiatives that enhance our environment, showcase arts and culture, and build community spirit.

Internship Description

The National Cherry Blossom Festival has a dedicated group of over 500 volunteers annually that play an integral role in the success of the Festival. The volunteer outreach and engagement intern will take on the responsibility of helping grow this flourishing community and make sure our volunteers have a positive experience. In this role, the intern will support the recruitment, training, and on-site coordination of volunteers at all National Cherry Blossom Festival signature and community events.

Key Responsibilities

• Recruitment & Outreach:
  • Assist in creating and distributing volunteer recruitment materials
  • Support outreach efforts to expand and diversify the volunteer base
• Volunteer Coordination:
  • Help track volunteer sign-ups and assignments using our volunteer management system
  • Update and create educational modules and role descriptions for volunteers in our volunteer management system
  • Assist with event-day check-in support and meal distribution on-site
• Communications & Engagement:
  • Draft engaging content for volunteer newsletters
  • Create posts and engage with members of our volunteer Facebook group
  • Reply to emails and voicemails from current and prospective volunteers
  • Support the planning and execution of volunteer retention and recognition events (i.e. Kick-off, Orientation, and Appreciation)

Schedule

• Spring Semester targeted start date: Monday, January 12, 2026
• 20-25 hours per week between 9:30AM and 5:30PM on Monday, Wednesday, and/or Thursday in person. Must be available for weekend and evening events as needed. Hours and schedule to be determined in consultation with the Volunteer Manager.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an accredited university or college as a full-time undergraduate or graduate student. Recent graduates may be considered.
• Interest in community building, nonprofit management, and/or events
• Experience working with diverse populations
• Detail oriented, organized, and proactive
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Capable of doing physical labor (lifting boxes, various event set-up duties, etc.)
• Comfortable working in both office and outdoor settings (rain, cold, mud, sun, wind, etc.)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office required; familiarity with Slack and Monday.com preferred but not required

Compensation

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc. internships are unpaid, but college credit may be offered depending upon the educational institution’s guidelines and requirements. A monthly stipend is available for interns to defray the cost of commuting to the office.