The Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF), the nation’s largest non-profit organization devoted exclusively to lymphoma research and advocacy, has officially opened its doors for its highly anticipated Summer Fundraising Internship program. Based at the organization’s headquarters in New York City, this initiative is designed to offer aspiring non-profit professionals a unique, hands-on experience in the complex world of philanthropic development.
As the LRF continues to push the boundaries of scientific discovery and patient support, the Development Department is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented individual to join their team for a twelve-week tenure. This internship serves as a critical bridge between academic theory and practical, high-impact non-profit work.
Main Facts: The Core of the Opportunity
The position, designated as a Fundraising Intern, offers a comprehensive look at how a major medical research foundation sustains its operations through strategic fundraising. The role is a temporary, part-time commitment, specifically tailored for individuals looking to gain a foothold in the non-profit sector.
Position Overview
- Location: New York City (In-person role).
- Compensation: $17.00 per hour.
- Time Commitment: 10 to 14 hours per week.
- Program Duration: May 26th to August 20th.
- Department: Development Department.
The LRF emphasizes that this is an in-person, immersive experience. By working directly alongside established development professionals, the selected intern will witness the day-to-day operations that keep the Foundation’s mission—eradicating lymphoma and serving those touched by the disease—at the forefront of medical research.
Chronology: A Structured Summer Roadmap
The internship program is carefully calibrated to ensure that the participant moves from an observational phase to a contributive one. The timeline is fixed to align with the typical summer academic break, providing a structured environment for professional growth.
Pre-Program (Spring)
The selection process begins immediately, with the Foundation prioritizing candidates who have not previously held an internship with the LRF. This reflects the organization’s commitment to providing equitable access to professional development opportunities for new candidates.
The Launch: Late May
The program officially commences on May 26th. The first week is dedicated to onboarding, where the intern will be introduced to the LRF’s specific fundraising methodologies, the current landscape of lymphoma research, and the organizational culture of the Foundation.
Mid-Summer: June and July
During the peak of the program, the intern will be integrated into the Development team’s ongoing projects. This phase is characterized by hands-on tasks, including donor outreach, database management, and participation in the strategic planning of fundraising campaigns. The objective during this period is to transition the intern from a learner to an active participant in the Foundation’s outreach efforts.
The Conclusion: August 20th
The final weeks of the program serve as a reflection and synthesis period. By August 20th, the intern is expected to have completed several key projects, providing them with a concrete portfolio of work and a clear understanding of the professional pathways available within the non-profit sector.
Supporting Data: Why Development Matters in Non-Profit Success
To understand the importance of this internship, one must examine the role of development in the non-profit ecosystem. For a medical research foundation like the LRF, the Development Department is the engine that drives innovation.
The Economics of Research
Lymphoma research is capital-intensive. Clinical trials, peer-reviewed grants, and patient advocacy programs require significant, consistent funding. According to industry standards for health-focused non-profits, the Development Department is typically responsible for:
- Individual Giving: Cultivating relationships with high-net-worth donors and individual supporters.
- Corporate Partnerships: Securing sponsorships from pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.
- Special Events: Managing large-scale fundraising galas and community-based events.
- Grant Writing: Drafting proposals for private foundations and government entities.
The intern will gain exposure to these pillars. In an era where funding volatility can threaten the progress of critical medical research, the work performed by development staff is not merely administrative; it is life-saving. By supporting these efforts, the intern plays a tangential but vital role in the long-term success of lymphoma treatments.
Official Perspectives: Cultivating Future Leadership
The Lymphoma Research Foundation has long been a proponent of mentorship. By formalizing this internship, the LRF is addressing a common gap in the non-profit sector: the need for entry-level professionals who are trained in the nuanced art of relationship-based fundraising.
Learning Objectives and Professional Growth
While the specific daily tasks are dynamic, the Foundation has established clear learning objectives for the summer. These include:
- Understanding the Development Cycle: Learning the full scope of the "ask," from donor identification to cultivation and stewardship.
- Data Literacy: Developing proficiency in managing donor databases, which are the backbone of modern fundraising.
- Professional Communication: Mastering the art of writing compelling narratives that resonate with donors and convey the urgency of the Foundation’s mission.
The Foundation’s leadership notes that the ideal candidate is not just someone who is organized, but someone who is deeply curious about the intersection of philanthropy and medicine. By requiring a writing sample—preferably from an academic or non-LRF project—the organization ensures that the candidate has the ability to translate complex information into clear, persuasive language.
Implications: Building a Career in the Non-Profit Sector
The impact of this internship extends far beyond the three months spent in the New York City office. For the successful applicant, this program serves as a resume-defining experience.
Networking and Mentorship
Working at the LRF headquarters provides an intern with direct access to senior leadership and experienced development officers. In the non-profit world, where personal networks and reputation are paramount, the relationships forged during this summer could influence career trajectories for years to come.
Addressing the Talent Gap
The non-profit sector faces an ongoing challenge in attracting and retaining talent. By providing a paid, structured, and challenging internship, the LRF is positioning itself as a leader in professional development. This approach benefits both the organization—which gains fresh perspectives and support—and the broader sector, which gains a new generation of trained, mission-driven professionals.
The Value of the In-Person Experience
Despite the modern shift toward remote work, the LRF’s insistence on an in-person role underscores the importance of physical collaboration in fundraising. Development is fundamentally about human connection. Being present in the office allows an intern to observe the "soft skills" of the profession—how a development officer navigates a difficult donor conversation, how they collaborate with the research team to translate clinical data into a fundraising pitch, and how they maintain composure during high-pressure events.
How to Apply: A Path to Contribution
The Lymphoma Research Foundation is currently inviting applications from candidates who meet the requirements. The application process is designed to be as much about intent as it is about credentials.
The Submission Requirements
Interested candidates should prepare the following:
- Resume: Detailing academic background and any relevant experience.
- Cover Letter: A personalized document explaining the candidate’s interest in the LRF, their specific learning goals for the summer, and the unique contributions they hope to make to the team.
- Writing Sample: A document no longer than four pages, created within the last two years. This should be an academic or professional piece that demonstrates the candidate’s ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.
Applications should be submitted via email to the LRF’s designated address, with the subject line "Fundraising Intern."
A Final Note to Candidates
The Foundation emphasizes that they are looking for candidates who are not just checking a box on their resume. They are looking for individuals who are ready to engage with the reality of non-profit work. The request for a specific cover letter—focusing on what you hope to contribute—is a clear signal that the LRF values proactive individuals who view the internship as a partnership rather than a passive learning experience.
As the summer of 2025 approaches, the Lymphoma Research Foundation stands ready to welcome a new member to its development team. For the right candidate, this is more than an internship; it is an opportunity to contribute to a legacy of research that provides hope and healing to patients across the nation. Through dedication, clear communication, and a passion for social impact, the next Fundraising Intern will play their part in moving the needle toward a world without lymphoma.
