Communication & Events Intern

About Tri-State Trails

At Tri-State Trails, we believe trails are more than paths; they are connectors of people, neighborhoods, opportunity, and joy. Our work strengthens communities across Greater Cincinnati by expanding access to safe, walkable, and bikeable infrastructure. We collaborate across sectors, advocate for equitable investment, and bring people together through events and storytelling that celebrate progress and inspire action.

Tri-State Trails is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working to connect and expand Greater Cincinnati’s regional trail and bikeway network. Our mission is to connect people and places through a regional trail network that enhances vibrancy and equity in our community.

Tri-State Trails is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and strongly encourages candidates from underrepresented backgrounds to apply.

Position Overview

Tri-State Trails is seeking a highly motivated, responsible, and enthusiastic undergraduate or graduate student to serve as a Communications & Events Intern beginning in May 2025. The intern will work closely with the Communications & Events Manager to support event production, digital communications, and storytelling initiatives.

This is a paid internship ($15–18 per hour, commensurate with experience) for 20–30 hours per week.

Internship Duration

Start Date: May 4, 2025
End Date: Flexible based on academic semester requirements

Tri-State Trails strongly prefers a candidate who can continue through December 2026 to support the biannual Tri-State Trails Summit and year-end fundraising campaign. Interns who demonstrate strong performance may take on increased leadership responsibilities during major events and campaigns.

Work Environment

The position is based at the UC Digital Futures building, with frequent travel to events and project sites throughout the region. Remote work may be available for a portion of weekly hours, depending on workload and event schedules.

The intern will regularly represent Tri-State Trails at community events, including evenings and weekends. Events may take place outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Primary Responsibilities

• Represent Tri-State Trails at community events (staffing tables or booths), including evenings and weekends
• Develop storytelling content and assist with content planning for Tri-State Trails and CROWN social media platforms
• Create written and visual content for websites, newsletters, and social media (graphics, blog posts, photography, short-form video)
• Support efforts to grow and engage Tri-State Trails’ digital audience
• Track and report website and social media metrics
• Assist with CRM and email marketing tools (EveryAction or similar platforms)
• Support production of the Tribune (monthly newsletter), including drafting blog posts and compiling partner updates
• Assist with merchandise sales and inventory management at events
• Attend planning meetings to support event coordination and communications strategy
• Collaborate on a capstone-style communications project that fulfills academic internship requirements and benefits Tri-State Trails or the CROWN

Required Qualifications

• Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, urban planning, or a related field
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Experience using social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X)
• Experience supporting events or community engagement activities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Experience with graphic design tools (Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, or similar platforms)
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Professional demeanor and comfort interacting with diverse stakeholders
• Passionate commitment to the mission of Tri-State Trails
• Access to reliable transportation
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

Preferred Qualifications

• Event planning or event production experience
• Experience with CRM systems (EveryAction experience a plus)
• Video editing experience (Premiere Pro, CapCut, Final Cut, or similar)
• Photography experience (Tri-State Trails does not provide photography equipment, but provides access to a shared Adobe account)
• Experience working in a nonprofit environment
• Experience navigating the region by bike and public transit
• Website management experience (WordPress or similar platforms)
• Familiarity with email marketing platforms (EveryAction, Mailchimp, Constant Contact, etc.)

How to Apply

Please submit:

• Resume
• 2–3 writing samples and/or design portfolio samples
• Brief cover letter describing your interest in active transportation, community-based work, and nonprofit communications