The Nonprofit Leadership and Philanthropy (NLP) certificate at the University of Iowa invites nonprofit organizations across the country to become a Community Partner.
An NLP Community Partner is a nonprofit organization eager to collaborate with the UI program in mutually beneficial ways. This collaboration ensures that organizations receive substantial assistance from students trained in nonprofit best practices while offering students practical experience to support their educational objectives.
Areas of Collaboration
Internships
Receive support in developing impactful internship job descriptions, along with feedback on effective strategies to generate interest in your open positions. Your opportunities will be promoted through targeted emails and social media outreach, reaching students enrolled in the Nonprofit Leadership and Philanthropy (NLP) Certificate and those taking core nonprofit courses. Additionally, utilize the UI Handshake platform to advertise your internships and connect with qualified students.
Community Engaged Courses
Join us as a valued community partner in a Community Engaged Course (CEC) and gain fresh insights, energy, and support from passionate students. While each course is distinct, CECs offer nonprofits a unique opportunity to collaborate with instructors and students on real-world projects that align with your organization’s goals. Students apply what they’re learning in the classroom to create meaningful deliverables—such as strategic plans, communication materials, fundraising proposals, or program evaluations—that can directly benefit your organization. In one course, students also help develop or refine important organizational policies and procedures, supporting strong governance and operational effectiveness. These partnerships not only support your mission but also provide students with valuable, hands-on experience. Together, we can create impact through learning and service.
Course: Nonprofit Organizational Effectiveness II
Students presenting their United Nations project.
Hawkeye Nonprofit Collective
Sponsored by the Nonprofit Leadership and Philanthropy (NLP) Certificate, the Hawkeye Nonprofit Collective (HNC) is a student organization comprised of passionate students who are dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the world. They accomplish this goal through connections with nonprofit professionals and offering the ChangeMakers Impact Initiative.
Opportunities to Engage with HNC
As a nonprofit professional, you’re invited to connect with students through both in-person and virtual opportunities, including:
- Serving as a guest on a Nonprofit Professionals Panel
- Participating in a Nonprofit Speed Networking event
- Attending a Dunkin’ & Discussion gathering
- Submitting volunteer opportunities with your organization
- Sharing upcoming events for students to attend
ChangeMakers Impact Initiative
Through the ChangeMakers Impact Initiative, HNC connects students with nonprofits that need support with specific, short-term projects. This initiative offers students valuable, hands-on experience without the time constraints of a formal internship—providing a flexible, mutually beneficial opportunity for both students and organizations.
How It Works:
- You submit a clearly defined project (see examples below) using our online form
- Submitted projects are reviewed and shared with HNC students
- Interested students reach out to you directly to discuss involvement
PROJECT EXAMPLES
- Plan and Execute a Special Event: Depending on the event's scope, this project can involve multiple students. When planning timelines, consider key academic dates, such as finals week and the end of the semester.
- Develop a Social Media Content Calendar: Create a comprehensive content calendar with corresponding social media posts tailored to the nonprofit’s goals.
- Update Donor Database and Reporting Processes: Streamline fundraising efforts by organizing donor data and optimizing reporting procedures.
- Interview Donors and Volunteers for Spotlight Stories: Conduct interviews and craft compelling stories to highlight the contributions of donors and volunteers, enhancing the organization's outreach and engagement.
By participating in the ChangeMakers Impact Initiative, students gain practical experience while supporting nonprofits in achieving their missions. Nonprofit professionals benefit from fresh perspectives and dedicated assistance, creating a win-win partnership for all involved.
Claire English
Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation
Career Connections
Looking to grow your team with educated, experienced, mission-driven professionals? Learn about soon-to-be graduating students who are eager to launch their nonprofit careers. You'll receive a cover letter and resume of potential candidates, ready for consideration for any vacancies within your organization—or for referral to your peers hiring within the sector. Furthermore, capitalize on the UI Handshake platform to showcase your available positions. We'll ensure your opportunities get noticed by our students!