How to Find the Best Nonprofit Internship for You
I want to work for a nonprofit organization, but which one? For what cause? And how?
It can be a long road working out how to get involved with nonprofits. The good news is you’re starting in the right place looking for an internship. The bad news, even just getting an internship takes work.
First of all, there are a lot of possibilities out there and it can be hard trying to find the best nonprofit internships for you. There’s a lot of factors to consider deciding which is the best nonprofit to intern for, the most meaningful cause to contribute to, and the most suitable internship for your professional development.
And for the first-time internship applicants, the high school graduates, and college students planning for nonprofit internships summer, the whole process can feel a bit intimidating.
But worry not, in this post you’ll find a step-by-step guide of how to find internships at nonprofits, tips on what to look for, and recommendations of the most popular programs we have available at Roots.
How to Get a Nonprofit Internship
Of course, nonprofit internships come in all shapes and sizes, interns too, and every application process will be different. Nonetheless, there are a few key questions that will help you decide which is the best nonprofit internship for you, and some things to keep in mind for any internship application.
So, here’s our pointers for each step of the way, from working out what you want to application to interviewing.
1. Identify what you’re passionate about.
Female empowerment? Homelessness? Asylum seekers? Conservation? A lot of the world needs putting to rights, what cause sets you alight?
If you want to find nonprofit internships, first find a mission or purpose that you’re passionate about. Primarily, this will give you the necessary drive to find your internship abroad, secure a placement, and make an impact once you’re there. As well as this though, a passion for the cause will make you a more appealing prospect to the organizations you apply to.
For some this won’t take much thought. Maybe you’ve always wanted to work with animals or children. Maybe you already have a background working for or studying a certain cause.
For others, it will take more thought. Take your time, do your research, and find the difference you want to make in the world. It will make the application process smoother and the nonprofit internship itself more fulfilling.
2. Consider how you can best contribute.
It’s all well and good saying, “I want to work for a nonprofit organization.” But what are you going to do for them?
You can find nonprofit internships in all kinds of roles: management, marketing, fund-raising, event planning, the list goes on. If you’re not sure where you’d best fit, we recommend starting small and finding a volunteer opportunity close to home. Interested in animal care? Volunteer at a dog shelter. Content writing? Guest post a blog for a site with open submissions. Fundraising? Do a sponsored run. It doesn’t have to be big, but it might give you an idea of the work you’ll enjoy and it’ll give you something to talk about in your application letter.
Beyond this, nonprofit organizations, especially the smaller more grassroots ones, love an intern who can show initiative. Once you’ve chosen an internship, research the organization, and turn up to the interview with an idea of the value you can bring to the organization. They will leap at the chance to take you on!
3. Determine what you want from the internship.
Yes, the best nonprofit internships allow you to give to a cause that needs it, but you should get something from the experience too. Be sure you’re making the most of the nonprofit internship career benefits.
This internship could be your first step on a new career path, it could be a chance to substantiate skills with experience, it could be just a break from the norm. Consider how you want to develop over the internship and this will help you whittle down your choices when it comes to picking.
Another thing, nonprofit internships take many different forms: in-person, remote, part-time, full time; there are so many options. Utilize these options!
You can find nonprofit internships that fit into your life and around your other commitments. Making an impact for a meaningful cause doesn’t have to mean putting your life on hold and traveling to another country. It could mean simply spending a few hours a week on your sofa with your laptop.
4. Research and shortlist nonprofit internships.
Now you know the cause you want to contribute to, how you can contribute, and what you hope to get in return, you’re ready to start making serious choices.
If you have an idea of an organization already, now would be a good point to reach out via socials to investigate what internship opportunities are available.
Really though, the best way to do this is to contact us at Roots! There are other intern-placing companies available, but the point is, get in touch with someone who knows how to get an nonprofit internship, and let them do the leg-work.
At Roots, we have a long list of all the best nonprofits to intern for, a precise understanding of what they need, and a strong track record for finding the best placements for interns. Come to us with an idea of what you want and we’ll make sure you find your dream nonprofit internship.
Browse the nonprofit internships available with Roots
5. Update your CV.
Alas, a passion for the cause isn’t always enough, you might also need some credentials, experience, and perhaps a portfolio or reference.
Requirements can vary drastically between nonprofits and internships. Some require prior experience, others qualifications, others degrees. It’s important to remember though that the ideal nonprofit intern isn’t the finished product, but someone who is willing to learn. If you already have relevant skills, knowledge, and experience, that’s great, but don’t let it stop you applying if you don’t.
6. Get ready to interview.
For interviews, we’ll offer the same advice you might have heard for first dates: interviews are as much about working out if you like the nonprofit organization as they are about whether or not the organization likes you.
Keep your own priorities in mind, ask questions, and communicate your wants and needs. This will help find an internship abroad you love, but it will also make you seem more confident and self-assured during the interview.
The 5 Best Nonprofit Internships
Now you know how to find internships at nonprofits on your own, if you’re starting from scratch, but there is another way too. With Roots, you can scroll through hundreds of the best nonprofit internships, talk to placement specialists, and be guided through every step of the application process. Here are our favorite picks for your potential shortlist of nonprofit internships!
1. Special Education Internship in the Philippines
Are you a student with a passion for learning and a knack for teaching?
Share your insight and academic prowess in a way that makes a real impact— teaching and assisting children with diverse academic developmental challenges— while broadening your understanding of different cultures and walks of life in the Philippines.
As an intern you will be a vital member of the team helping with the educational methodologies that assist not only the educators, but also parents, on how to navigate their children’s education. You’ll take part in brainstorming and facilitating workshops that bring awareness to learning challenges faced by pupils and how to effectively assist and encourage students.
This is your chance to be involved in shaping the future generation of vibrant thinkers!
2. Veterinary Internship in Portugal
Is taking care of animals something you’re passionate about? Are you working towards a degree in veterinary studies?
Based on an animal sanctuary in rural Portugal, this internship lets you care for rescued farm animals — including pigs, goats, and donkeys — many saved from exploitation. You’ll assist with health checks, feeding routines, treatments, and help promote ethical animal care.
This really is one of the best nonprofit internships for any aspiring vets keen to combine hands-on experience with a purpose-driven lifestyle, all while enjoying Portugal’s peaceful countryside.
3. Youth Social Work Internship in Cape Town
One word, six letters and a legacy of changing the world for the better: Ubuntu— “I am because we are.” This internship is all about connection, compassion, and community.
Based in Cape Town, you’ll join a local nonprofit supporting children facing emotional and social challenges. Your role will involve offering guidance, mentorship, and a listening ear to those in need. You’ll work alongside a multidisciplinary team in fields like social work, psychology, and education—perfect for students or recent grads looking to build practical experience.
You’ll also develop valuable skills in case management, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication, all while making a meaningful impact in the community. Outside of work, you’ll explore the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of South Africa — and carry the spirit of Ubuntu with you wherever you go.
4. Biology Research Internship in Peru
Want to turn your biology knowledge into meaningful fieldwork? This nonprofit internship places you in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, where you’ll help monitor plant life and study the region’s rich ecosystems.
With a focus on rainforest conservation, you’ll work alongside local communities to promote sustainable practices and develop eco-friendly alternatives to deforestation-based livelihoods. It’s a chance to contribute to long-term environmental change while gaining practical research experience in a truly unique setting.
You’ll be surrounded by passionate conservationists, build lasting connections, and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most vital ecosystems. Perfect for biology/conservation students looking to expand their skills and make a tangible impact on the planet.
5. Social Entrepreneurship Internship in Malawi
Looking to combine business skills with meaningful impact? This internship in Malawi lets you do just that.
You’ll work with a local social enterprise focused on women’s health, helping to break taboos around menstrual hygiene through sustainable, socially conscious products. From marketing and product development to fundraising and impact assessment, you’ll gain hands-on experience in every aspect of a grassroots social enterprise.
This is a great opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to build real-world skills while supporting a powerful cause. During your free time, enjoy Malawi’s laid-back lifestyle, explore vibrant communities, and swim in the clear waters of Lake Malawi — home to over 700 species of colorful cichlids. A perfect blend of purpose, adventure, and professional growth.
Now It’s Time to Get Involved in Nonprofits!
There it is, our guide on how to get internships at nonprofits, with guidance for every step of the process. On top of that, you also have a few suggestions on some of the best non profit internships available! If you’ve ever said, “I want to work for a nonprofit organization,” now you have no excuse.
If none of the nonprofit internships above spark your interest, be sure to have a look through the other internships available at Roots. And if you have any further questions on how to get involved in nonprofits, then get in touch!
Browse the nonprofit internships available with Roots
This blog was written by Tom Rusbridge.
