Emerging Leader Fellowship (Intern)

Job Title: Emerging Leader Fellowship

FSLA Classification: Part-time- Intern- Remote

Location: District of Columbia

Reports To:

Revision Date: March 2025

To be considered for any SJCS careers, all applicants must apply using this link: SJCS Careers.

About St. John’s Community Services

As one of the oldest non-profit organizations founded in the District of Columbia, St. John’s Community Services (SJCS) is committed to supporting and advocating for people of all abilities. SJCS works to cultivate caring communities to ensure that all people have the opportunity to thrive, and no one is left behind.  We support individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as adults and children experiencing hunger and homelessness in 4 states and the District of Columbia.

At SJCS, we pride ourselves in meeting every person we support where they are, learning who they are, and affirming their individuality, unique strengths, and hopes. It’s why we exist.  Advancing inclusive communities where every person, regardless of circumstances, has the right and opportunity to live their best life is our mission, and our mission is what drives us and is at the heart of our services and programs.

What are we looking for?

The SJCS Emerging Leader Fellow is a part-time fellowship role within St. John's Community Services (SJCS). This fellowship is designed for ambitious individuals seeking to make an impact in the social services sector while gaining valuable experience in business development, financial forecasting, and social entrepreneurship. The Fellow will support SJCS teams across multiple locations with various strategic initiatives to enhance the organization's sustainability and impact. 

Working closely with executive team members, the Emerging Leader Fellow will contribute to key projects that advance SJCS's mission of creating inclusive communities and enhancing independence for individuals of all abilities. This role provides a unique opportunity to learn from experienced leaders while making meaningful contributions to a respected organization with a 150-year history of community service. 

The successful candidate will be reliable, smart, and driven. They will have a passion for social impact and a desire to develop leadership skills in the nonprofit sector. This fellowship represents an excellent steppingstone for individuals looking to build a career at the intersection of business strategy and social services.

Your overall essential responsibilities will be the following:

Responsibilities 

• Support business development initiatives by conducting market research, competitive analysis, and opportunity assessment 
• Assist with financial forecasting and budget planning for new and existing programs 
• Contribute to social entrepreneurship projects by helping develop business models and implementation strategies 
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather insights and data on program effectiveness 
• Prepare reports, presentations, and other materials for leadership meetings and external stakeholders 
• Research funding opportunities, partnerships, and innovative practices in the social services sector 
• Support the organization's thought leadership efforts through research and content development 
• Assist with special projects as by other executive leaders 
• Learn about SJCS's operations across all five states to develop a comprehensive understanding of the organization 

Engagement Model 

• 10 hours per week commitment, with flexible scheduling 
• Regular check-ins with supervisor and mentorship from executive team members 
• Participation in select meetings 
• Collaboration with staff across departments and locations 
• Opportunities to represent SJCS at community events and professional development activities 

Key Performance Indicators 

• Quality and timeliness of research, analysis, and deliverables 
• Innovative contributions to business development and social entrepreneurship initiatives 
• Ability to work independently while maintaining alignment with organizational goals 
• Growth in leadership capabilities and professional skills 
• Positive feedback from team members and stakeholders 

Expected Deliverables 

• Research briefs on market opportunities and best practices in social enterprise 
• Financial models and projections for proposed initiatives 
• Contributions to strategic planning documents and implementation roadmaps 
• Regular progress reports on assigned projects 
• Final presentation summarizing fellowship experience and contributions 

This list of responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this position is not complete; other duties may be assigned and are expected to be followed.

Compensation

• Monthly stipend of $1,000 
• Professional development opportunities 
• Mentorship from executive leadership 
• Networking within the social services sector 
• Valuable experience in nonprofit strategy and operations 

Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

Do you think you are a great fit for this position? We are waiting for you to join our team! To be considered, apply today on our company website, SJCS Careers.

You will catch our eye if you have the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Current enrollment in an accredited college 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail 
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities 
• Proficiency with data analysis, financial modeling, and strategic planning 
• Demonstrated interest in social impact, disability services, or community development 
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities 
• Experience with project management and collaboration tools 
• Creative thinking and innovative approach to challenges 
• Passion for SJCS's mission of creating inclusive communities 
• Previous experience or coursework in business development, financial analysis, or entrepreneurship (preferred) 

All SJCS employees must:

• Obtain a valid health certificate to meet SJCS or current funding authority requirements as required.
• Meet SJCS and the funding authority requirement of criminal background and record checks.
• Working alone or with a team.

Do you think you are a great fit for this position? We are waiting for you to join our team! To be considered, apply today on our company website, SJCS Careers.