Marketing and Outreach Internship

The Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, serving Hammond and East Chicago in Northwest Indiana, offers a dynamic environment for potential interns interested in economic development and community engagement. Here's what you can expect:

>Mission and Vision

• >Mission: The Lakeshore Chamber acts as a voice for business and a platform for exchanging ideas, aiming to enhance the economic vitality of the region through various programs and services.

• >Vision: To foster a community environment where businesses of all sizes can thrive.

>Opportunities for Interns

While specific internship details are not provided, interning with a chamber of commerce typically involves:

• >Economic Development: Supporting initiatives that promote local business growth and job creation.

• >Community Engagement: Participating in events and projects that connect businesses with the community.

• >Networking: Building professional connections with local business leaders and entrepreneurs.

• >Skill Development: Gaining hands-on experience in areas such as event planning, research, and communication.

>Collaboration and Partnerships

The Lakeshore Chamber collaborates with other organizations, like the Crossroads Chamber, to form alliances like the Lake County Economic Alliance (LCEA), which focuses on strengthening economic development efforts in Lake County.

>Benefits for Interns

Interning with the Lakeshore Chamber can provide valuable experience in economic development, community relations, and business operations. It offers a chance to contribute to local economic initiatives while developing professional skills and networking opportunities.

If you're interested in economic development, community engagement, and gaining practical experience in a dynamic business environment, the Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce could be an excellent place to start your career journey.

As an intern with the Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, your responsibilities might align with typical economic development internship roles. Here are some potential duties you could expect:

>Responsibilities

1. >Research and Analysis:

   • Conduct research on economic trends, business development opportunities, and community needs.

   • Analyze data to support economic development initiatives and projects.

2. >Project Support:

   • Assist in planning and implementing economic development projects, such as business retention and expansion efforts.

   • Participate in special projects under the supervision of the economic development team.

3. >Community Engagement:

   • Attend community events, meetings, and workshops to engage with local businesses, government entities, and community organizations.

   • Help organize and coordinate events related to economic development.

4. >Administrative Tasks:

   • Perform administrative duties like filing, reporting, developing meeting agendas, and taking meeting minutes.

   • Assist with preparing presentations and reports for stakeholders.

5. >Networking and Collaboration:

   • Build professional relationships with local business leaders and economic development partners.

   • Collaborate with the economic development team to identify opportunities for collaboration and growth.

6. >Independent Projects:

   • Design and complete an independent project that contributes to the organization's goals and your professional development.

Here are some typical qualifications for an intern in an economic development role, such as with the Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce:

>Qualifications for an Intern

1. >Academic Background:

   • Currently enrolled or recently graduated from an accredited institution.

   • Majoring in fields like Economics, Business Administration, Urban Planning, Public Policy, or related areas.

2. >Skills:

   • Strong communication, interpersonal, and written skills.

   • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant software tools.

   • Analytical, organizational, and time management skills.

   • Ability to multitask and work independently.

3. >Experience:

   • Previous experience in event planning, customer service, or marketing is beneficial.

   • Familiarity with data analysis tools and software like Stata, SQL, or SAS is advantageous.

4. >Personal Attributes:

   • Strong interest in economic development, community engagement, and urban planning.

   • Ambitious and self-motivated with a drive to learn and contribute.

5. >Availability:

   • Availability to work part-time or full-time during the internship period, which may include evenings and weekends for events.

6. >Academic Requirements:

   • Typically, students must meet minimum GPA requirements and have completed a certain number of credits to be eligible for internship credits.