Description

This is an internship to gain valuable experience and insight while establishing a new non-profit organization from the ground up in Mount Vernon. In 2011, over 100 women were turned away from New Directions battered women's shelter, and most had nowhere else to turn. We found this heart-wrenching, and are in the process of authoring the by-laws, establishing our board, and securing our charitable 501c tax-exempt status. Our model is one of manufacturing, combined with traditional giving to both implement solutions sooner, as well as pay for expansions and ensure long term survivability of the organization. Our non-profit is 'Sew Me The Way', with the manufacturing part being contract sewing to stimulate the local economy and provide jobs. (Concealment Unlimited in Mount Vernon, is providing some staffing and machinery to kick off this model, as well as providing sewing jobs as a paying customer.) The 'Haven' portion of the model will work to provide housing, programs, and basic needs to women and their minor children who are displaced in our region. Long term, the goal would be that no woman in need is turned away due to lack of space. We also hope long term to be able to develop more affordable housing in Knox County, and build confidence and skills to help these women function independently.

There are 1-2 part-time paid internships (opportunities available year round), which may convert to paid permanent positions. Responsibilities will generally center around writing, research, and relationship building. Examples of writing include drafting bylaws, board expectations, researching and obtaining licenses and permits, researching and applying for grants, writing persuasive letters, websites, and newsletters, and development plans. Examples of relationship building include identifying and training board members, developing prospecting lists and making contacts, following up on contacts and gathering information for possible donations, organizing fundraising and informational events, sending holiday cards and gifts, and asking for gifts. Most importantly, being an ambassador for Sew Me The Way and teaching people about who we are and what we do.