Endowment Internship

Overview 

Zionsville United Methodist Church (ZUMC) invites applications for a Spring 2026 Internship in Endowment Development and Donor Engagement, supporting the ministry of the church through the ZUMC Endowment Committee and Donor Projects. 

This internship is part of the Seeds of Faith Endowment Program and is funded by the ZUMC Endowment Gentry Legacy Society and the ZUMC Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) budget. The position provides meaningful experience for an undergraduate or graduate student interested in philanthropy, business, finance, or nonprofit management—and in applying those skills within a Christian faith-based organization. 

The role is ideal for a student who values the intersection of philanthropy and ministry and wants to make a tangible contribution to the church’s long-term mission and community impact. The internship provides practical exposure to faith-based endowment management, donor engagement, and nonprofit operations in a collaborative and mission-driven setting. 

Position Summary 

The intern will assist the church staff and the Endowment Committee, focusing on administration, database development, donor communications, and an intern project related to endowment growth and donor engagement. More than 50% of the internship will emphasize administrative and data management tasks, with the remainder involving donor relations, event planning, and project support. 

Key Responsibilities 

● Develop and maintain an organized ZUMC Endowment donor and Legacy Society database 

● Support administrative systems for donor correspondence, record keeping, and reporting 

● Help plan and coordinate at least one educational event and one endowment-related tour 

● Contribute to an updated ZUMC Endowment Seeds of Faith Endowment Brochure 

● Participate in developing a Legacy Society process, including recognition and stewardship activities 

● Provide communication and logistical support for church staff, the Endowment Committee, and donor initiatives 

Major Project 

The intern will complete one major project—developed in coordination with church staff and the Endowment Committee—such as designing a Legacy Society and Donor Stewardship Process that will serve as a lasting framework for donor recognition and engagement within the Seeds of Faith Endowment program. 

Preferred Background and Experience 

● Undergraduate or graduate student with relevant coursework or experience in philanthropy, business, finance, communications, or nonprofit management 

● Experience with database creation and management 

● Familiarity with donations, fundraising, or endowment administration 

● Strong organizational and administrative skills with attention to detail 

● Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and comfort with data tools 

● Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 

● Demonstrated high integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism 

● Successful completion of a background security check (required) 

● Background connection to ZUMC, the United Methodist Church Denomination or related church background 

● Interest in philanthropy, stewardship, and faith-based nonprofit leadership