Paid Summer Internship Opportunity in the U.S.: F. M. Kirby Foundation Internship Program 2026

Are you a college student interested in philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, or social impact work? The F. M. Kirby Foundation is currently accepting applications for its highly competitive Summer Internship Program, based in Morristown, New Jersey. This paid internship offers an excellent opportunity for students who want hands-on exposure to the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors while developing professional, research, and communication skills.

Applications are open now and will be accepted on a rolling basis until February 27, making early application strongly recommended.

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About the F. M. Kirby Foundation

Established in 1931 by Fred Morgan Kirby, the F. M. Kirby Foundation has a long-standing legacy of supporting organizations that strengthen communities and improve quality of life. The Foundation provides grants across diverse sectors, including education, health, environmental conservation, arts and culture, human services, religious initiatives, and public affairs.

Through strategic grantmaking and partnerships, the Foundation plays a vital role in advancing nonprofit organizations that create lasting social impact across the United States.

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Internship Overview

The F. M. Kirby Foundation Summer Internship Program is designed for rising college sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are curious about careers in philanthropy, nonprofit management, communications, or research-driven social work.

This internship is highly flexible and can be tailored to match the intern’s interests and skill set, while still providing broad exposure to the Foundation’s operations. Interns will work closely with experienced professionals and gain insight into how funding decisions are made, how nonprofits are evaluated, and how foundations communicate their mission and impact.

By the end of the program, interns will walk away with:

• A deeper understanding of the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors
• Practical work experience in a professional office environment
• Exposure to real-world grantmaking and nonprofit partnerships
• Valuable mentorship and networking opportunities

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Key Responsibilities

Interns will be involved in a wide range of meaningful activities, including but not limited to:

• Identifying and researching potential funding opportunities within the Foundation’s grantmaking areas
• Supporting internal and external communications, such as website updates, LinkedIn content, and board correspondence
• Participating in site visits with nonprofit grantees alongside Foundation Program Officers
• Proofreading and editing grant reports, evaluations, and internal documents
• Conducting research and data analysis for the Executive Director and Foundation staff
• Completing special projects tailored to the intern’s personal interests, academic background, and career goals

This role is ideal for students who enjoy research, writing, teamwork, and learning how social impact organizations operate behind the scenes.

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Internship Schedule and Location

Location: In-office at Sansay House, Morristown, New Jersey

Duration: 10 consecutive weeks between May and August 2026

Weekly Commitment: Approximately 20–25 hours per week

Flexibility: Start and end dates, as well as weekly schedules, can be reasonably adjusted to fit the intern’s availability

College Credit: May be eligible for academic credit, depending on the intern’s institution

The in-office component allows interns to gain hands-on professional experience while benefiting from direct mentorship and collaboration with the Foundation team.

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Eligibility and Preferred Qualifications

Applicants from all academic majors are encouraged to apply. The ideal candidate will:

• Demonstrate a strong interest in philanthropy and/or nonprofit management
• Be responsible, punctual, self-motivated, and ethically grounded
• Possess strong writing and research skills
• Be a flexible, curious learner who works well in a team environment
• Have proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
• Be able to follow instructions carefully and manage tasks independently

Additional eligibility requirements:

• Must have qualified for need-based financial aid in the previous academic year
• Must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.2 or higher

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Compensation and Benefits

Hourly Pay: $23 per hour

Additional Benefit: One-time travel stipend

Professional Value: Real-world experience, mentorship, and networking in the nonprofit sector

This makes the F. M. Kirby Foundation Internship a rare opportunity that combines meaningful work with competitive pay.

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How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Unofficial academic transcript
• List of three references

Applications should be sent via email to:

Dave Cucchiara (Communications & Program Associate) dac@fmkirby.com

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Important Dates

Application Deadline: February 27

Notification of Selected Intern: By April 3

Internship Period: May–August 2026

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged.

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Equal Opportunity Statement

The F. M. Kirby Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under applicable laws.

This internship is an excellent opportunity for students seeking a paid, impact-driven experience in the United States while exploring careers in philanthropy and nonprofit leadership.

Find more details about this internship here

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