Public Relations Intern

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Internship Title: Public Relations Intern
Location: Hybrid [NYC]
Supervisor: Executive Officer of Project Management
Department: Marketing Department
Hours: 19 hours per week

Open Spots: Three (3)
Relevant Major: PR, Communications, and Media Relations or related fields

About IRAISE:

I'RAISE Girls & Boys International Corporation, founded in the heart of the North Bronx in 2012, began as a mentoring program for at-risk female youth living in New York City Authority Housing. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Shanequa Moore, the organization quickly expanded its reach and impact. Shanequa, a Bronx native who overcame poverty and significant life challenges, was inspired to give back to her community, creating a resilient organization dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and youth.

Incorporated in 2013 and achieving Tax-Exempt Non-Profit status in 2014, I'RAISE has grown into a formidable force for positive change. Initially focused on mentoring, the organization recognized the critical need for mental health support in public schools and strategically pivoted to address this gap. Today, I'RAISE champions equity in mental healthcare through culturally responsive programs that foster resilience, well-being, and empowerment for youth.

Internship Overview:

Looking to gain hands-on experience in public relations and media communications? Join I'RAISE as a Public Relations Intern, where you'll have the opportunity to work closely with professionals in the PR field, while learning and applying key strategies in media relations, content creation, and event coordination. This internship offers a blend of in-person and online work, allowing for flexibility while developing critical skills that will set you up for future career success.

This role is ideal for students seeking a dynamic environment to grow their technical, creative, and project management abilities, while contributing to meaningful PR initiatives that support the mission of our organization.

Interns will have the opportunity to focus on one of the following PR projects, depending on their interests and career goals:

1. PR Intern - Fireside Chat Management

Focus on setting the vision and managing the PR strategy for the Fireside Chat, a bi-weekly virtual discussion hosted by CEO Shanequa Moore. During these sessions, we invite guests to share insights on topics that align with I'RAISE's mission. This includes promoting the event, coordinating with speakers, and analyzing the success of each session.

2. PR Intern - Podcast Strategy and Management

Set the vision and manage the PR efforts for I'RAISE's podcast series, including content creation, media outreach, and social media promotion.

3. PR Lead Intern - Fireside Chat & Podcast Leadership

Lead both the Fireside Chat and Podcast PR Interns, ensuring cohesive branding, media outreach, and overall project success.

Responsibilities

• Assist in drafting press releases, contacting media outlets, and coordinating PR activities that raise awareness for I'RAISE's initiatives.
• Develop engaging content for social media, newsletters, and outreach materials to elevate the organization's public profile.
• Conduct research to identify media opportunities, support PR campaign planning, and assist in developing strategies to streamline communication efforts.
• Help coordinate logistics for press conferences, public events, and editorial meetings, gaining valuable event management experience.
• Draft and distribute key communications, such as emails and press releases, while tracking media coverage and PR metrics.
• Manage media lists, calendars, and assist with clerical duties related to PR operations.
• Collaborate with the team on press opportunities to enhance media visibility for both I'RAISE and CEO Shanequa Moore.

Learning Objectives:

• Gain a deep understanding of the public relations landscape, learning how to effectively manage media relationships and PR campaigns.
• Build skills in contacting and pitching to media outlets, writing press releases, and managing public-facing communications.
• Learn to coordinate PR-related events, from planning to execution, working closely with senior staff.
• Sharpen your research skills by identifying new PR opportunities and trends, while contributing to strategic campaign development.
• Enhance both verbal and written communication abilities by crafting professional content for a variety of platforms.
• Gain experience in juggling multiple tasks, priorities, and deadlines, learning key project management techniques.
• Expand your network by building relationships with media professionals, internal staff, and key stakeholders through this internship experience.
• Develop innovative problem-solving and strategic planning skills as you work on real-world PR campaigns.

How This Internship Benefits You:

• Gain direct exposure to the PR and media industry through real-world assignments that help build your portfolio.
• Grow essential skills in public relations, media communication, project management, and event coordination.
• Explore different facets of PR and media relations, helping to define and refine your professional goals.
• Build a network of professional contacts in the PR and nonprofit sectors that may open doors for future career opportunities.
• Bolster your resume with substantial, hands-on experience that demonstrates your ability to manage PR initiatives and coordinate media outreach.

Supervision and Support:

• Orientation: Start with a meeting to set expectations, responsibilities, and goals.
• Weekly Check-ins: Receive regular feedback and guidance to support your development and address any challenges.
• Access ongoing support from experienced executive professionals, who will offer advice and insights to enhance your learning.
• Midpoint and final evaluations will help you track your progress, identify strengths, and discuss areas for growth.

Qualifications:

• Current enrollment or recent graduate in Public Relations, Communications, Media Studies, Journalism, or related field.
• Strong writing skills for press releases, blog posts, and social media content.
• Creative & strategic thinking with the ability to develop PR campaigns.
• Social media proficiency across platforms (e.g., Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn).
• Event coordination experience or interest in media/public events.
• Attention to detail in content creation and event execution.
• Research skills for identifying media opportunities and trends.
• Team player with strong collaboration and communication skills.
• Time management to handle multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Technical skills (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Canva, Adobe Suite a plus).
• Passion for social Impact and nonprofit work, especially related to youth and mental health.
• Previous PR experience (preferred but not required).
  

If you have any questions about the application process, please contact our HR Team at human.resources@iraiseinc.org and visit our website at www.iraiseinc.org.

Thank you!