SECU Public Fellows Internship Program – Summer 2024 – 11 Opportunities

The State Employees Credit Union (SECU) Foundation supports the SECU Public Fellows Internship (PFI) program at ECU. This is a call for interns for undergraduate internships that will be part of the SECU Public Fellows Internship (PFI) program. The purpose of the program is to connect interested, talented undergraduate students with local leadership to obtain meaningful on-the-job-experience with a local agency or organization. The PFI connects students who have a commitment for public service with organizations in low resource communities in eastern North Carolina. This internship program blends a traditional internship placement experience with a team-based, collaborative approach that draws on the expertise of both the university and community partner agency.     

The 2024 PFI program will continue to focus on strengthening eastern North Carolina, where many low wealth, economically distressed communities are located. By assigning highly motivated and capable student interns to work in these communities, this program may be a useful strategy to build workforce capacity in the region. Twenty students will participate in the program during the summer or 2024. Each student selected will receive an undergraduate research assistantship with a $4,600 stipend. 

Check out these nine locations that are targeted toward students with communication majors. Learn more about the PFI program and how to apply at  go.ecu.edu/pfi


  1. NC Stop Human Trafficking

Position Summary – Marketing and Communication Assistant

The marketing and communication assistant for NC Stop Human Trafficking (NCSHT) will be asked to share information on several social media platforms about their programs, events, and other information around human trafficking. The person who serves in this position will also be asked to collect and analyze performance on several social media platforms and websites, and adjust the messaging based on the data to improve reach, engagement, and website traffic. The marketing and communication assistant will also perform duties that include networking with other service providers, businesses, corporations, and community members to build anti-human trafficking support in the community and fundraise for the nonprofit.  

Duties will include: 

  • Keeping various websites up to date and social media platforms for NCSHT up to date using Sprout Social  
  • Keeping Fair Traders Project social platforms up to date  
  • Meeting with stakeholders face-to-face to discuss their needs 
  • Organizing membership communication through email marketing techniques 
  • Craft the weekly newsletter 
  • Write content for the website keeping SEO in mind 

Internship Location & Supervisor Information  

NCSHT is a nonprofit working toward a vision of a state free of human trafficking. It does this in four action items. The first is training and education. NCSHT trains professionals, such as law enforcement, school personnel, health care professionals, and first responders in how to identify human trafficking victimization and how to respond to survivors in a victim-centered, trauma-informed way. It also founded and facilitates the Pitt County Coalition Against Human Trafficking and is one of the three founding organizations of the NC Demand Reduction Task Force. NCSHT advocates for stronger anti-human trafficking legislation on state and federal levels. It also introduces fair trade certified products into the local market. The student will work directly with Melinda Sampson, Community Outreach Coordinator. NCSHT is located at 1413 S. Evans St., Suite A, Greenville, NC 27834. This internship will be fully face to face on site. This position hours are typically Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., however, some evening events and weekend events require assistance from the whole team. 

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities  

The marketing and communication assistant position requires the potential candidate to be comfortable posting on several social media platforms and website programs. This candidate must also be passionate about social justice issues as well as anti-human trafficking initiatives and understand strategic digital relationship development.  

Qualifications:  

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Suite, Google Drive, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Twitter 
  • Excellent writing skills 
  • Understanding of SEO content creation for website 
  • Understanding or willingness to learn WordPress 
  • Valid Driver’s License and dependable transportation 
  • Basic understanding of marketing, graphic design, and photography 

Majors Targeted 

Communication, Criminal Justice, Family and Community Sciences, Graphic Design, Marketing, Psychology, Public Health, Social Work, Sociology

Click to apply for this position.


2. Restoration Weldon

Position Summary – Marketing Assistant 

All Things Weldon is a souvenir and gift shop that gives its net proceeds to Restoration Weldon.  It needs to be fully developed.  It has had a good start, but it could be a strong revenue stream for Restoration Weldon, the non-profit organization funding the economic revitalization projects of Weldon In Action.    

Currently All Things Weldon only exists in a single physical location.  We need to take this little shop online while continuing to develop the physical location.  The intern will work to do the following:  

  • Decide the best way to create an online presence for the store and implement it.  
  • Establish and connect online payment methods to online sales sites.  
  • Create multiple on-line avenues for promoting the business.  
  • Help expand and manage inventory and recruit new vendors.  
  • Create and improve print materials: 1) better labels and tags for products; 2) Artist bios and pictures to display along with merchandise and to feature online; 3) materials and visuals that show the impact of what Weldon In Action is doing in the community.   
  • Help plan, execute and assess pop up markets and festivals.  There are at least two each summer:  the 301 Yard Sale in mid-June (2 days) and the July 4 celebration (1 day) 
  • Create a yearly calendar of online and in person special events and sales. 

Internship Location & Supervisor Information

Restoration Weldon is a 501 (C) 3 organization which supports Weldon In Action, a group of diverse, energetic people working together to create an economically viable town and a thriving community of engaged neighbors. Through projects and events, Restoration Weldon aims to encourage community engagement, assist in economic development, and create accessible public gathering places to honor our rich history and inspire the future. The goals of Restoration Weldon include undertaking projects and initiatives in and for the revitalization of Weldon including, but not limited to, the following: stimulate economic development, restore landmark properties, develop walkways, parks, and recreational options at the Roanoke River, encourage healthy places and healthy living, encourage participation among citizens in the restoration of Weldon, and work together with other organizations committed to the revitalization of Weldon.  

The student will work directly with Andrea Irby, VP of Marketing and Jennifer Coomer, Communications Director. Restoration Weldon is located at 200 Mill Street Weldon. This internship will be hybrid, mostly face to face with some virtual working days. The student should expect to commute to the site once or twice per week. Housing is not required but will be provided as necessary.   

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities  

Students must have strong interpersonal and communication skills, and a background in marketing/digital marketing would be beneficial.  

Majors Targeted 

Business, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Marketing

Click to apply for this position.


3. Rocking Horse Ranch

Position Summary – Summer Camp Program Assistant Coordinator

The Summer Camp Coordinator Intern/Program Assistant for Rocking Horse Ranch will assist the Program Director and Executive Director in community outreach, planning, volunteer coordination, and execution of summer camps to be offered at Rocking Horse Ranch. The student does not need horse experience but must be open to learning about the equines in our care.  

Organizing a summer camp provides the opportunity for great skill development, from leadership abilities, time management skills, and organizational skills. Actively engaging with members of the community provides access to key stakeholders and allows for further opportunities down the road from those relationships that will be built through this position. 

Internship Location & Supervisor Information  

Rocking Horse Ranch Therapeutic Riding Program, Inc. is a non-profit organization that has been in operation in Greenville, NC for over 30 years. Rocking Horse Ranch provides equine-assisted services to those with different abilities across seven counties in Eastern NC to a wide array of abilities and ages. The different types of programming offered are mounted sessions, ground school sessions, horseshoes for heroes, and corporate training. Through individuals working with our equines, they can go on to lead happier, healthier, and more productive lives. The student will work directly with Morgan Tedder, Executive Director. Rocking Horse Ranch is located at 1721 Blue Banks Farm Road, Greenville, NC 27834. This internship will be fully face to face on site. 

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities  

The intern should be innovative, outgoing, and willing to learn professional outreach and communication as those are all integral parts of the position. The intern should have the ability to withstand outdoor temperatures, work in an office shared with others, and stand longer during camp days. Experience working with children with different abilities is not required, but a willingness to work with different abilities is required.  

Majors Targeted 

Education, Kinesiology, Recreational Therapy, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, others 

Click to apply for this position.


4. Ronald McDonald House of Eastern North Carolina

Position Summary – Marketing and Communications Intern

The Marketing Intern will assist the Development Team in a wide range of projects that benefit the mission and vision of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern North Carolina. The selected individual will report to the Marketing and Community Engagement Manager and/or the Director of Development. The intern will gain hands-on experience and training in many aspects of marketing and communications while also gaining a high level of knowledge on how a non-profit organization operates. We have several opportunities that are presented to interns at RMHC of Eastern North Carolina. We allow interns to shadow department heads in company meetings, contribute to operational decisions, and treat them as a true part of our team. Interns can attend tabling events and other community awareness activities. 

Internship Location & Supervisor Information  

The RMHC of Eastern North Carolina provides a temporary home, food, support services, and access to medical care for families of children who are receiving treatment from area medical facilities. The student will work directly with Caleb Turik, Marketing and Community Engagement Manager. The RMHC of Eastern North Carolina is located at 529 Moye Blvd. Greenville, NC 27834. This internship will be hybrid with most work taking place face to face with some virtual workdays.  

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities  

The Marketing and Communication Intern must be able to: 

  • Assist in the development of creative marketing strategies to promote the work of RMH  
  • Assist with updating the RMH social media outlets and website  
  • Assist in creating messages to reach new audiences using multiple media outlets and creating short videos for social media 
  • Assist in promoting volunteer opportunities  
  • Provide day-of event support  
  • Serve as an RMH brand ambassador by representing the organization at community tabling events  
  • Assist with administrative duties, such as answering the phone, as needed, and assigned by the Administrative Coordinator or internship supervisor(s)  
  • Collaborate with Development Team to help steward donors as needed  

Majors Targeted  

Marketing, Communication, Entrepreneurship, Business 

Click to apply for this position.


5. Association of Mexicans in North Carolina, Inc. (AMEXCAN)

Position Summary – Program Coordinator

The Program Coordinator for the Association of Mexicans in North Carolina Inc. (AMEXCAN) would be responsible for planning and implementing assigned programs while working within relevant initiatives, as well as interconnecting assignments with other coordinators for long term objectives. One of the most important tools to combat disparities is the development and implementation of collaborative multisystem strategic plans that utilize diverse actions to create long term systemic changes. Each program and task the Program Director completes towards these goals must be specially tailored to meet the needs of the diverse populations we serve. As the needs of the community change, so will the programs and services offered by the organization. During this internship, students will strengthen their skills in the following areas: leadership, public speaking, connecting with the Latino community, learning about nonprofits, and networking with community partners.  

Tasks the Program Coordinator will complete include: 

  • Coordinate with other team members for events and activities  
  • Utilize outreach tools and methods to engage the community  
  • Coordinate with community leaders to develop action plans for activities  
  • Develop key partnerships for events and programs  
  • Coordinate with community partners for events  
  • Utilize outreach methods to recruit new members, volunteers, and community partners  
  • Attend essential meetings and program events  
  • Evaluate programs and events and present this data 
  • Create contacts within available resources and create lists of resources and providers in communities served 
  • Facilitate community partnerships with local resources, the organization, and the community  
  • Coordinate community partners to present to the community  
  • Train volunteers in outreach methods, leadership skills, and program standards 
  • Ensure that partnerships remain beneficial to the community and follow ethical standards that preserve the dignity and safety of the community  
  • Other duties as needed

Internship Location & Supervisor Information  

The intern will work to develop, implement, and evaluate existing programs, events, and initiatives. They will work with others to develop new programs and work on building community capacity around health, advocacy, education, and culture. Our mission is to foster the appreciation, understanding, and prosperity of the Mexican and Latino Community through Advocacy, Culture, Health, Education, Leadership, and Binational Programs. The student will work directly with Jenifer Rodriguez Alvarez, Director of Internship and Volunteers. AMEXCAN is located at 1410 Evans Street, Suite 1A, Greenville, NC 27834. This internship will be fully face to face on site. 

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities  

Applicants should demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; have excellent written and verbal communication skills; maintain confidentiality; demonstrate time management skills; and be able to work collaboratively in a diverse, team-based environment. Bilingual in Spanish is preferred but not a requirement. 

Majors Targeted  

Communication, Business, Education, Family and Community Services, Hispanic Studies, Hispanic Studies Education, Public Health 

Click to apply for this position.


6. Beaufort County Arts Council

Position Summary – Non-Profit Administrative & Marketing Intern

The Beaufort County Arts Council and the Turnage Theatre (BCAC/Turnage) is seeking an exceptional intern to fill the role of Non-Profit Administration, Marketing and Graphic Design, and Event Team Member. Interns will be heavily involved in shaping BCAC/Turnage by working directly with the executive team. Main responsibilities will be collaborating with the executive team to develop and execute the marketing strategy and assist with administrative tasks supporting the programs and mission of the BCAC. The intern will provide support for BCAC/Turnage events. The student will be invited to attend all Board meetings and Advisory Board meetings. They will also be invited to participate in community meetings with entities like Rotary and other community organizations and will be a presence at community events including Bath Fest, Smoke on the Water, SummerFest, and more. They will be an active representative of the organization in the public. Duties may include assisting with and are not limited to:   

  • Creating, editing, and executing Marketing and Graphic Design products and strategies  
  • Managing, developing, and executing social media Marketing and Graphic Design  
  • Collaborating with BCAC/Turnage Team on Marketing and Graphic Design strategy and business/product development  
  • Coordinating projects with team members 
  • Researching and maintaining detailed knowledge of competitors and industry/market trends and opportunities as well as conducting market research  
  • Administrative duties related to the proper functioning of a non-profit organization.

Internship Location & Supervisor Information  

The Beaufort County Arts Council and the historic Turnage Theatre provide performing, visual arts, and cultural opportunities through initiation, support, and presentation of artistic programs in Beaufort County and the surrounding region. It is a goal of the BCAC to present a wide range of educational, entertainment, and cultural programs, and to encourage the same by advancing and supporting the efforts of local artists, arts organizations, and arts businesses throughout the region. Arts of the Pamlico/Turnage Theater is located at 150 West Main Street, Washington, NC 27889. The intern will report to Bronte Labbe, Visual Art & Marketing Director. This internship will be hybrid, meaning the intern will work mostly face-to-face with some virtual working days, and the student should expect to commute to the site more than three times per week.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities  

Knowledge of Microsoft Suite, Canva, Adobe Suite, and WordPress is desired but not mandatory. Knowledge of social media platforms. The ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks and projects, and strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary for this position.  

Majors Targeted 

Marketing, Art, Communication, and Art Education 

Click to apply for this position.


7. Eastern Carolina Vocational Center (ECVC)

Position Summary – Digital Marketing Assistant

A Digital Marketing Assistant with the Eastern Carolina Vocational Center (ECVC) will gain practical experience in a nonprofit company setting that sells products & services to fund its mission. It does not depend on donations or grants. Duties of the internship can be modified depending on student’s major. The intern will work closely with the current Marketing Assistant on the following tasks: 

  • Assist with social media posts (write, copy, and share posts, and take pictures/videos/animations) 
  • Use social media to promote/share ECVC’s mission (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, Hootsuite) 
  • Create flyers/ads with graphics/pictures 
  • Assist with analyzing ECVCinc.com website, Google Analytics, and social media stats, suggest design/info changes from new POV for website 
  • Help develop email marketing campaigns  
  • Assist with developing & executing marketing plans  
  • Assist with Google Non-Profit Ads Grant 
  • Assist with planning/advertising for the Anniversary Banquet 2024 event (held Oct. 3rd) 
  • Research best methods for reaching target market demographics, competitors’ websites, etc. 
  • Assist with marketing ideas for ECVC’s Frame Shop 
  • Research local area employers and marketing methods for different populations
  • Help with ECVC’s onsite recruiting events 
  • Other marketing related duties as assigned 

Internship Location & Supervisor Information  

ECVC is a private nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation that provides job training and employment services to persons with disabilities in Pitt and its surrounding counties in Eastern North Carolina. Their mission is to help persons with disabilities attain a higher quality of life through the achievement of their vocational goals.  

The student will work directly with Ellen Jackson, Director of Customer Operations. ECVC is located at 2100 N. Greene Street, Greenville, NC 27834. This internship will be fully face to face on site. Hours are flexible for class schedules, and it should be noted that normal ECVC hours are 8:00AM to 4:30PM, Monday through Friday.  

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities  

The student should be organized, punctual, and have a strong work ethic. The student should have the ability to collaborate with others.  

Majors Targeted 

Marking, Communication, Entrepreneurship  

Click to apply for this position.


8. Heart for ENC

Position Summary – Community Engagement and Development Intern

The Community Engagement and Development Intern will work to strengthen Heart for ENC’s presence and grow our reach as we seek to equip and empower nonprofits throughout eastern NC. The intern will work to maximize our current resources and programs while helping to create strategies to expand our work to new areas, focusing on market research, promotional strategies, and developing community relationships. This student will have the opportunity to meet and interact with a wide variety of community leaders (nonprofit and business) here in Pitt County and will be tasked to build connections and grow our reach in other areas as well (Beaufort County and Craven County at least). We host weekly nonprofit networking opportunities as well as periodic community-wide events, all of which will be a part of this experience.  

This internship will provide significant experience in nonprofit leadership, marketing strategy, and community networking/engagement. 

Internship Location & Supervisor Information  

Heart for ENC works to equip and empower nonprofit organizations serving in eastern NC. We provide practical resources for nonprofit leaders through hosting workshops, facilitating leaders’ cohorts, coaching, and more. We also work to build connections between nonprofits and the community and to more effectively activate local resources to grow nonprofit impact. In addition, we have a Nonprofit Business Center that hosts 18 different nonprofit organizations and work to leverage this resource to build collaboration, grow awareness and more. The student will work directly with Sid Bradsher, Executive Director. Heart for ENC is located at 101 W 14th St Suite 103, Greenville, NC 27834. This internship will be fully face to face on site. 

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities  

The ideal candidate will be highly motivated and driven by a desire to serve their community. Applicants should demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, be knowledgeable in social media, have excellent written and verbal communication skills, maintain confidentiality, demonstrate strong time management skills, and work collaboratively in a diverse, team-based environment. 

Majors Targeted 

Marketing, Communication, Community and Regional Planning, Entrepreneurship 

Click to apply for this position.


9. Imagine Pamlico

Position Summary – Intern

This experience will give the student an opportunity to experience building an organization from the ground up, but also the importance of relationship management and business development. The IP teams has years of experience working with interns from large institutions each year who have all had rewarding experiences and exposure. The selected intern would work alongside a variety of industry professions to include but not limited to: Architectural engineers, economic development planners, healthcare administrators, business and information technology professionals. They would play a key role in strategic planning sessions, building effective agendas, prioritizing organizational goals, industry networking and much more. 

Duties would include but not limited to compiling data for presentations, assisting with marketing strategies, working on a strategic plan, looking at innovative ways to grow the nonprofit, maintaining and updating records, and acting as a representative for Imagine Pamlico. 

Internship Location & Supervisor Information  

Imagine Pamlico is a nonprofit that seeks to enhance and improve the lives of those who call Pamlico County home. Imagine Pamlico believes that all residents should have access to health care, economic opportunity, education, safety and community enhancing events. This work is pursued with an eye towards the future while honoring and respecting the people and traditions that have made Pamlico County such a special and unique community. The Imagine Pamlico team has more than 75 years of combined experience in the areas of Economic & Business Development, Corporate Fundraising, Marketing, Healthcare Operations Management, and Information Technology. These IP professionals will work very closely on a daily basis with the selected intern for support and to help develop them to develop skills that will benefit their career long term.  

The student will work directly with Bob Fuller and Tim Taylor. Imagine Pamlico is located at 210 Vandemere Rd Unit C., Bayboro, NC 28515. This internship will be hybrid with some virtual days but mostly face to face. Student should expect to commute to the site once or twice a week.  

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities 

Interest in rural communities, capable of engaging in grant research, familiar with AI, works well with others, able to create track and summarize survey data, organized, and willing to work with others across the county at varying position levels. 

Majors Targeted 

Information Technology, Management, Business, Economics, Marketing, Public Health, and others interested in the organization’s mission 

Click to apply for this position.


10. Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children

Position Summary – Public Awareness Intern

The Public Awareness Intern for Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children would be responsible for the following tasks: 

  • Assist with Public Awareness initiatives 
  • Attend Community meetings 
  • Upload posts for various social media and website platforms 
  • Event planning and fundraising for the Partnership 
  • Plan for Pitt County KidsFest Spooktacular 2024 
  • Coordinate with Partnership staff for program specific materials needed 
  • Contact local business and community partners about participation in upcoming events 
  • Record keeping of all materials created 
  • Create and manage binders for upcoming events 
  • Assist our Lending Library Specialist with visits from childcare providers or caregivers when needed  

Networking allows students to meet agency directors, supervisors, and those in leadership positions which will give them a foot in the door for employment should a vacant position become available in the interest of the student.  

Internship Location & Supervisor Information  

Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children is a non-profit organization focused on providing programs and resources that ensure a bright future for every child in our communities. Our efforts are concentrated in five areas: quality early childcare and learning, parent and family support, health care, childcare provider training, and early literacy during the first five years of a child’s life. We would love to have support from an intern to help advocate for early childhood education through community engagement, planning public outreach events, attending community meetings, peer networking, and more. The student will work directly with Ashley Smith, MPH, Public Awareness Coordinator. Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children is located at 111 Eastbrook Drive, Greenville, NC 27858. This internship will be hybrid, mostly face to face with some virtual working days. This internship schedule includes occasional nights and weekends.  

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities  

The Public Awareness Intern is required to have the following skills: 

  • Public speaking skills and the ability to communicate effectively, verbally and through writing 
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Graphic design tools such as Canva and Adobe 

Majors Targeted 

Child Life, Communication, Education, Family and Community Services, Marketing, Psychology,  Public Health, Sociology

Click to apply for this position.


11. Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce

Position Summary – Project Assistant

The Chamber Intern will assist the Director and Office Manager in marketing strategy (focusing on the website), social media, and local publication/radio growth. There will also be a focus on creating a plan for the Town Council to use with the Tourism Development Authority for Murfreesboro to implement a marketing plan of action. This position will require meetings and discussions with local elected officials, local business partners, and others involved. This intern will use their knowledge of the internet, social media, and other applications. The Executive Director will mentor the intern regarding all the above. This position is based at the Chamber Office in Murfreesboro, but most of the time will be spent out in the community. This intern will have extensive networking opportunities with community leaders, business owners, and other non-profit organizations.  

Internship Location & Supervisor Information  

The Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce promotes the civic, commercial, agricultural, industrial, and cultural interests of the Town of Murfreesboro and surrounding community, to bring a closer relationship among its members and to secure concerted action on their part in constant improvement of existing conditions. The student will work directly with Daryl Williams, Executive Director. The Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce is located at 116 E. Main Street, Murfreesboro, NC 27855. This internship will be hybrid, mostly face to face with some virtual working days. Students should expect to commute to the site once or twice a week. Housing arrangements are possible, but not guaranteed. 

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities  

Interns must be responsible and organized. It is also essential that interns have strong communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills. Having knowledge of the internet, social media, and other applications is helpful for this position.  

Majors Targeted 

Business, Communication, Entrepreneurship, Hospitality Leadership, Marketing, Political Science, Public/Business Administration, Recreation and Leisure Studies, others

Click to apply for this position.