Internal Communications Intern at Understood in New York City, NY

About Understood

Understood is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive. 

Having a shared commitment to our values is a key factor in any hire we make. We have five core values: 

1. Continuously learn.
2. Act with intention.
3. Champion difference.
4. Inspire change.
5. Grow together. 

Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s helping to shape the world for difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential. 

To learn more about Understood, please visit: www.understood.org.

Who you are 

This internship is open to undergraduate students seeking experience in communications, employee engagement, or organizational communications. Reporting to our Internal Communications Manager, you will contribute to meaningful projects and gain hands-on experience in your field.

This internship will be based out of our NYC office in the West Village. Interns work up to 25 hours per week: three full days in-office (Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday) and one half-day remote. Pay rate: $25/hour.

Responsibilities

Support the Internal Communications team in executing employee communications, engagement initiatives, and employer brand efforts. This includes the following:

• Engagement Initiatives: Assist in planning and coordinating employee events, including Days of Understanding (DoU) and All Team Meetings (ATMs) (both virtual and in-person), delivering real-time, on-the-ground support during events.
• Employer Brand: Develop content that enhances Understood’s reputation as a leading neuroinclusive employer, including blog content (e.g., Behind the Impact) and social media posts in partnership with copywriters.
• Support the development of internal communications materials across channels, including presentations, internal monitors, and intranet content.
• Maintain and update project timelines, communication calendars, and team workflows; assist in documenting processes and improving systems to increase team efficiency and capacity.
• Track engagement metrics and gather insights to help improve communication effectiveness and employee engagement.
• Partner with teams across the organization to support shared initiatives and contribute to team meetings, brainstorming, and problem-solving discussions.

Ideal candidates will possess the following:

• Strong writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and effectively across formats
• Basic understanding of communications strategy, including audience identification and message development
• Strategic and creative thinking skills, with a willingness to bring forward new ideas and perspectives
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills, with a high level of attention to detail
• Familiarity with Google Workspace (Slides, Docs, Sheets, Analytics) 
• Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a willingness to take initiative
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to navigate different working styles and build relationships across teams
• Genuine interest in internal communications, employee engagement, event production, content development, and marketing

Bonus skills

• Experience with graphic design tools such as Canva or Figma
• Experience with Confluence or Contentful

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.

Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.

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