The Development Research Intern will work 40 hours a week from June through August 2025, collaborating with The Unusual Suspects’ Chief Executive Officer and Advancement staff to complete a comprehensive research report that assesses the giving motivations and barriers of current and prospective donors and key partners, as well as fundraising trends in the field The project aims to improve The Unusual Suspects’ fundraising messaging, strategies, and relationships, as well as the long-term sustainability of the organization and its continued ability to uplift our predominantly BIPOC youth participants through our award-winning arts education programs. In order to successfully complete the 400-hour project, the Intern will utilize and grow their skills in research, data analysis, interviewing, and written communication.
The Development Research Intern should be detail-oriented, punctual, flexible, and conscientious, with exceptional communication, organizational, and time-management skills. The Intern must demonstrate basic computer skills and have experience with Microsoft Office and Google Suite. Experience performing research and data evaluation, along with experience/knowledge in fundraising, community relations, and/or administration is a plus. The ideal candidate has some knowledge of/interest in Theatre Arts, Arts Education, and Non-Profits, and a strong commitment to social change through community empowerment and the Arts. The Intern should be a creative thinker with the ability to complete projects both independently and in a team environment. USTC is an inclusive work environment, and the Intern must have the cultural competency to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus. Candidate MUST have access to reliable transportation.
The mission of The Unusual Suspects Theatre Company (USTC) is to mentor, educate, and enrich youth in under-resourced communities through the creation of collaborative, original theatre. Founded in 1993 in response to the LA Uprising — a tipping point that amplified a cry for justice and an inevitable response to systemic inequity — USTC has grown from a small, volunteer-led youth intervention program into an award-winning leader in the fields of arts education, youth development, mentorship, and community building. We believe in the fundamental right to self-expression and assert that the young people in our communities have the talent to make extraordinary art if given the opportunity. By providing platforms for uncensored self-expression, our participants are able to identify and leverage their innate talents; build creativity, confidence, and essential lifelong skills; and, importantly, overcome inequitable circumstances resulting from decades of systemic oppression.
Please email your resume and cover letter — describing your experience and qualifications, why this internship interests you, and what you hope to take away from it — to jobs@theunusualsuspects.org. Include “Development Research Intern” in the subject line. No calls please.