The upcoming nonprofit and volunteer internship fair is designed to expose Grand Valley State University students to opportunities that can benefit them in their lives and careers. Students will have an opportunity to connect with various agencies in the greater Grand Rapids area.

The Nonprofit Volunteer and Internship Fair will take place Wednesday, Sept. 9 in the Henry Hall atrium from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

“We bring in a wide variety of organizations that hopefully appeal to the passions and interests of students at the university,” said Brendan Gallagher, coordinator of the event.

Up to 50 agencies will be present at this year’s event. The fair provides a connection point for students to meet organizations that will help them become an active part of their community.

“These opportunities allow students to connect with the community in which they are a part of,” Gallagher said. “We are all a part of this community and to be able to watch students get involved in something that is mutually beneficial for both themselves and the organization is something special.”

The event acts as an open house, so the atmosphere will be casual and welcoming for all. Students should feel comfortable and at ease, coming either with a goal in mind or just curious about their options.

“Students can expect friendly faces, an abundance of opportunities to interact with community partners and the opportunity to network with other like-minded students,” said Melissa Baker-Boosamra, coordinator of the Community Service Learning Center.

Students are able to talk and connect with community partners and organizations in an effort to acquire an internship, volunteer opportunities and sometimes even full-time positions.

“Through volunteerism and internships, students are able to make a real impact on issues they care about, while learning how to apply the skills and knowledge they are gaining in the classroom,” Baker-Boosamra said. “The hope is that students connect with an individual or an organization that is meaningful to them, and which can ignite their passions.”

There will be a large number of organizations present, meaning that students are likely to find opportunities that align with their personal interests and skills.

“I hope that students find something that peaks their interest,” Gallagher said. “That they connect with an individual or an organization that is meaningful to them.”

The event aims to benefit both students and community partners, allowing both to gain from the volunteer or internship relationship.

“My suggestion would be to come in with an open mind,” Gallagher said. “There might be an organization there with an opportunity for you to get involved with something you would have never thought about previously.”

The event targets all majors and interests. Students who have never thought of volunteering before are welcome to come as well as students who want to work in the nonprofit sector – the coordinators hope all students will be able to take something positive away from the event.

“The best part of this event is that you have all these amazing organizations all in one place, all looking for students to connect with them,” Gallagher said.

Resumes and business attire are not required but may be appropriate for those looking for internships.

“A wide range of community organizations will be represented, each with opportunities for students from a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds,” Baker-Boosamra said.