Job Description

About the Jones Center

Jones Center is a regional destination in downtown Springdale. It is a vibrant, inclusive community and recreation center where people of all backgrounds and ages come together to play, grow, connect and thrive.





The 220,000 square-foot center welcomes 600,000 visitors annually and features Northwest Arkansas' only indoor ice arena, the Tyson Foods Fitness Center, an indoor Jr. Olympic and leisure pools complex, a gymnasium with indoor track and a conference center. The 55-acre campus also features the world-class Runway Bike Park, Velosolutions pump track and multipurpose outdoor recreation spaces.





Jones Center offers kids and adult classes for ice skating, gymnastics, ballet, painting, science, biking, martial arts, and more. Day camps serve more than 1,300 students, introducing new interests and fostering friendships. Family connections are nurtured through multigenerational programs like Obstacle Runaround, Community Campout, FamJam Saturdays, and free Funday Sundays.





Programs are guided by four impact pillars: arts and culture, sports and recreation, science and technology, and, through the Jones Community for Nonprofits, nonprofit sustainability and resiliency. Jones Center facilities are home to Camp War Eagle, Haas Hall, University of Arkansas Razorback Hockey Clubs, Springdale High School Swim and Dive teams, and regional youth sports clubs such as AquaHawgs, NWA Hockey Association, and Ozark Figure Skating Club.





Jones Center was founded as a 501(c)3 nonprofit in 1995 by local philanthropist Bernice Jones, the wife of Jones Truck Lines founder Harvey Jones. The center continues to follow Bernice's vision of being a destination where all are welcome and no one is turned away based on their ability to pay. Through the generous support of the Walmart Foundation and others, the Jones Center provides Access for Everyone membership scholarships to local families.

Job Summary

The Development Intern will play a supportive role in advancing the fundraising and donor engagement efforts of Jones Center. This position provides an opportunity to observe and participate in the inner workings of a professional nonprofit development office, while contributing to projects that make a real difference in the community. The intern will gain practical experience in office administration, relationship management, and event support, while developing skills applicable to a wide range of careers. The work may require flexible working hours that include evening and weekend responsibilities.





Main Responsibilities

Provide support for donor and corporate sponsor cultivation and stewardship activities. Assist with data entry and ensure accuracy and attention to detail in maintaining the Constituent Relationship Management (CRM) system. Help organize office spaces, processes, and plans to support efficient development operations. Support preparation of donor correspondence, reports, and event materials. Conduct prospect research and compile information for development staff. Assist with planning and coordination of fundraising events and sponsored programs. Provide general administrative support to the development team. Maintain and uphold the policies and procedures of the Jones Center and the confidentiality of the development office. Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Must be a current student eligible for the Federal Work Study Program. All academic majors are considered. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to accept and meet deadlines. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented. Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint). Willingness to learn and take initiative. High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, particularly in data entry and record-keeping. Professional demeanor, reliability, and a positive attitude.

Work Schedule

Part-time, flexible schedule based on class commitments. Some in-office work at the Jones Center Downtown Springdale location is expected. Scheduled remote or work-from-home options available. Must be available for some evenings and weekends, depending on events and programming.

Physical Requirements

Ability to remain stationary, occasionally standing or sitting for prolonged periods. Occasionally, the ability to lift 25 pounds is required. If the position necessitates lifting more than 25 pounds, please collaborate with a co-worker or supervisor to assist with the heavier lifting.

About the Position

The Jones Center Development Office is seeking a motivated student to join our team as an Intern. This internship offers an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising, donor relations, volunteerism, and community engagement. The intern will contribute to meaningful projects that support the Center's mission to help individuals of all ages learn, play, and thrive. Students from all academic majors are welcome to apply. This role is designed for a student who is eager to learn about the nonprofit sector while developing transferable skills in philanthropic management, communications, corporate relations, organization, and project management. The intern will work closely with development staff and gain insight into the daily operations of a dynamic community-centered nonprofit.