Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalitoin (MBCC)/Silent Spring Internship

The Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) / Silent Spring Institute (SSI) intern will assist with special events and projects for each of the organizations. Publicizing and preparing for the 20th annual Against the Tide fundraising event will be the main task involving MBCC. Engaging in additional projects and supporting the two organizations will also be part of the internship. This position involves frequent communication with Cheryl Osimo, MBCC/SSI Event and Outreach Coordinator.

Tasks can be completed from school or home, as internet and telephone will be the primary communication tools needed for assignments. Thus, the flexibility of the position is substantial, with minimal travel except for on-site assistance required the day before and the day of the 2012 Against the Tide Swim/Kayak/Walk/Run events held on June 23rd at DCR’s Hopkinton State Park in Hopkinton, MA and again on August 18th at DCR’s Nickerson State Park in Brewster, MA. It may be necessary to attend other events that are not yet on our calendar.

Interested students must commit to one of the three intern opportunities: (1) March 2012 – August 2012, (2) April 2012 – August 2012, or (3) May 2012 -September 2012. In order to be considered for the position, please email Cheryl Osimo at cosimo@mbcc.org with a cover letter and resume, as well as to schedule an appointment to have an initial phone interview to discuss the opportunities available. While the position is unpaid, we are willing to work with institutions to offer students academic credit and/or stipends to cover expenses.

Job responsibilities may include the following:

– Assisting Cheryl Osimo with oversight of other interns.

– Interviewing Against the Tide event participants. This requires phone and/or email contact with those who have been touched by breast cancer. Phone interviews are critical for obtaining information used in press releases and media coverage. In some instances it will be necessary to interview participants in person.

– Preparing and distributing press releases for various media outlets including but not limited to newspaper, radio, and television. This includes follow-up calls and providing additional information when necessary.

– Initiating contact with local community businesses, health facilities, and individuals to encourage community sponsorship and individual and team participation.

– Posting event materials including posters and mailers in various locations. This responsibility includes targeting high traffic locations that will increase event participation.

– Assisting with preparation the day before and the day of events. This may include inflating buoys, marking the walk trail, contacting event vendors, and various other duties.

– Promoting various events via social media outlets possibly including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Word Press blogging.

– Assisting with programs not yet on our calendar (i.e., the 50th anniversary of Silent Spring’s book written by Rachel Carson – an MBCC and SSI event.)

Critical skills include the ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks, excellent communication skills, concise and clear writing abilities, and proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel. Organizational skills are necessary to manage a high volume of emails, documents, event information, and contacts. The position also necessitates an ability to conduct interviews with compassion, sensitivity, and tact.

For more information, please contact Cheryl Osimo, MBCC/SSI Event and Outreach Coordinator, at 508-246-3047 or cosimo@mbcc.org.