Although schools can teach you many things, there are some lessons you can only learn through experience. That’s what I was hoping for this summer – experiences in the nonprofit world that would help me learn what it’s all about. I didn’t know exactly what niche I wanted to pursue which is why the Kennari internship program was so beneficial for me. My internship at Kennari allowed me to see several different aspects of the nonprofit world. Through working at Kennari I was exposed to the ideas and strategies of fund development; by shadowing Kennari team members, I was introduced to the various goals and needs of different organizations. In addition, through my intern project with a Kennari client, I was able to get hands-on experience working at a nonprofit.
Through my direct involvement with Kennari, I learned about donor cultivation, campaign planning, grant writing, and the importance of building strong relationships with supporters. I also saw how much thought and organization goes into creating tools and strategies that will set clients up for success. I think the reason I was able to learn so much so quickly is because of the incredibly supportive environment at Kennari. Everyone is genuinely invested in learning and growth. It’s a place where questions are encouraged and opinions are valued.
I was also given the opportunity to learn through observing. Throughout my internship, I shadowed several meetings between Kennari team members and clients. By sitting in on these meetings, I gained insight into the diverse goals, structures, and needs of a wide range of different organizations. This firsthand observation allowed me to see how different organizations tailor their fundraising to their target audiences and how they address community needs with the resources they have available. I was even given the opportunity to contribute to a few of these organizations by taking on small tasks that could help move them forward in bigger picture projects.
Shadowing introduced me to a range of organizations, but it was my weekly workday with a Kennari client that allowed me to fully immerse myself in the day-to-day operations of a nonprofit. Every Monday, I spent the day at United Church Outreach Ministry (UCOM) helping with both basic needs and major projects. Some of my time was simply spent answering phone calls and interacting with community members. Other times I was able to support the organization by drafting grant proposals that will help finance new projects and programs. The days at UCOM provided invaluable firsthand experience with a nonprofit.
From learning the fundamentals of fund development to observing client meetings and contributing directly to nonprofit operations, I gained a deeper understanding of the nonprofit sector and the many ways organizations work to serve their communities. Most importantly, Kennari’s supportive and encouraging environment made it possible to learn, ask questions, and explore different areas of interest. I would encourage anyone with an interest in giving back to their community while developing their professional skillset to consider Kennari’s internship program.
Learn more about Kennari Consulting’s internship program, including opportunity openings on our Careers page.