Internships & Talent Pipelines for Nonprofits (Non-Profit Workshop)

Ideal Audience:  Board Members with fiduciary oversight responsibilities;  Executive Directors and Program Directors responsible for program expansion and involved in budgeting, reporting, and grant compliance;  Emerging nonprofit leaders preparing organizations for sustainable growth

Presenters: Lupe Gonzales, Equus Workforce Solutions; Bridgette Coleman, San Diego Regional EDC; Dr. India Pierce-Jackson, The Joy Collaborative

This session explores how nonprofits can build low-cost and no-cost talent pipelines while creating meaningful, well-structured internship experiences. Learn how to leverage regional workforce programs and design internships that provide mutual benefit—advancing your organization’s goals while supporting intern growth and development. Speakers from San Diego North EDC and Equus Workforce Development will share practical models nonprofits can implement immediately.

Key Takeaways

• How the Advancing San Diego internship program connects nonprofits to K-16 talent
• Using EWE and ESE workforce programs to access subsidized or supported employees
• Designing internships with clear structure—from onboarding to offboarding
• Creating joyful, supportive workplace cultures that enhance intern success
• Balancing project outcomes with intern learning, discovery, and growth