Meet Tyler. After graduating from Arizona State University, working at a nonprofit in Ireland, and spending three years with the American Cancer Society, Tyler was an ideal addition to the Development Team as our Corporate Engagement Intern. As a nonprofit-loving people-person, Tyler gets the opportunity to rub elbows (over the phone, at least) with big businesses and executives as he recruits new corporate donors. It’s a big job, and Tyler is just the man for it. We sat down with him to learn more about life as a Corporate Engagement Intern.
What does a typical day as Corporate Engagement Intern look like?
I spend a lot of time researching businesses that could become potential donors as well as researching contacts within those businesses. I also steward businesses that have donated to Invisible Children in the past. Lately, I’ve had the opportunity to put together some proposals and pitches about fundraising events to get the #zeroLRA campaign in motion, which is really exciting.
What made you want to intern with Invisible Children?
I first heard about Invisible Children when I was 16 after seeing a film screening at my school. When I started becoming interested in a nonprofit career path, I talked to a friend of mine who was an IC intern. I basically stalked her Facebook and Instagram everyday because it was clear she was doing one of the coolest internships ever, and I knew I wanted to work here ever since.
In one sentence, why do you love working at IC?
Because the people I work with and the work that I do make me feel comfortable and confident coming to work every day.
Tyler works closely with Bryan, our Development Associate, and Rebecca, our Donor Administration Intern.
What sets your internship apart from others, and what impact are you able to make in your specific role?
My internship is different than others because I’m able to work with a new kind of clientele than, say, our Engagement Team. I am reaching out to professionals in businesses that may never have heard of Invisible Children before. Many of our supporters are youth, so it’s cool that I’m able to step out and hit a different but equally important demographic.
What’s your favorite part about living in San Diego?
A lot of people would say the weather, but I’m from Arizona so I’m used to the sun! What I love is San Diego’s music scene. So far, I’ve been able to see a lot of bands at live shows, and it’s definitely one of the best things about this city.
What’s it like working and living with other interns?
It’s definitely an adventure! It’s a blast to get to be with coworkers outside of the workplace because it means that you’re constantly growing and learning, even when you’re not in the office.
What’s been your favorite moment so far?
My favorite moment was definitely at the Common Good Exchange at the 2013 Fourth Estate Summit. It was an amazing opportunity getting to talk to different nonprofits and network with the people that run them. More than that, I loved seeing people from all over the world (and from all different organizations) come together at event under the banner of social justice.
What advice would you give a future intern?
I would tell them to come into this internships with high goals for themselves. I came in knowing what I wanted to accomplish, and I’ve worked towards those goals daily. At the same time, it’s also important to recognize how much you have to learn and to evolve your goals accordingly. Ultimately, when you hold yourself to high expectations, it will be the best way for you to develop personally and professionally in this internship.
It’s time for a little word association. Tell me the first thing that pops into your mind when I say…
Donor: Money
Impact: Comet
Staff meetings: Noise
Ben Keesey: Easy breezy
KONY 2012: Weird
Office culture: Laid back
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