Job Description

The Design Internat ChildServe will assist the Foundation department with runway and design support for our annual gala, Bubble Ball. The internship will provide a current college student the opportunity to learn about runway coordination and design creation relating to fashion and non-profit fundraising.

Bubble Ball is ChildServe’s signature gala, and one of Des Moines’ most unique events! Volunteer designers debut Bubble Wrap creations as part of a themed runway show production and gallery of stationary designs. Attendees are treated to dinner and musical entertainment, performances, and other surprises. Bubble Ball 2026 will take place on April 18, 2026 at Iowa Events Center.

Schedule & Experience 

8-10 hours/week, during standard business hours. Can be flexible with class and other work schedules. Work will be completed at our ChildServelocation in Johnston and/or remotely as approved. 

Must have availability starting in October 2025, through April 2026.

This internship may be a school-to-work opportunity or a paid internship. The internship can be offered to those applicants seeking course credit, building portfolio content, and/or specific academic internship requirements in the Fall and/or Spring semester.

What You'll Do 

Design Creation(approximately 50% of experience)

• Create accessories made from Bubble Wrap to be purchased by guests at the event. Including but not limited to bow ties, necklaces, flower crowns, hair broaches, etc.
• Collaborate with our Runway Director to craft and execute specialty act costuming at her studio in the Des Moines metro.
• Serve as a member of the Bubble Ball Décor committee by crafting centerpiece creations made from Bubble Wrap.
• Lead communications and schedule orders to cut Bubble Wrap for designers.
• Help with any other Bubble Wrap design creation or cutting of the material.

Runway Support(approximately 50% of experience) 

• Create processes and procedures around sales for the Bubble Wrap merchandise store.
• Draft runway support communications and planning documents; including but not limited to designer and model weekly communications, hair and makeup look book, designer slideshow, etc.

Experience & Skills 

• Experience with crafting, sewing, and/or working with textiles.
• Interest in fashion design and runway coordination.
• Ability to be a self-starter.
• Flexibility, creativity, and organization skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs.
• An interest in non-profit management and community development.
• Writing and composition ability.
• Ability to communicate effectively in reading, writing, and speaking the English language.

ChildServehas earned the title of Top Workplace every year since 2014. Here’s why employees love working here:  

• Our work matters.We partner with families to help children with special healthcare needs live a great life.
• We’re not your average non-profit.We serve more than 5,800 children each year through over 30 specialty pediatric services in the Ames, Des Moines, Iowa City, and Cedar Rapids areas. Many of our programs are one-of-a-kind.
• Our team rocks.Our teams are filled with people who care about their coworkers, and who believe that collaboration is key to providing exceptional care to children.
• Our learning never stops.As a non-profit dedicated to innovation, we’re proud to help team members gain new certifications, continue their education, take their expertise to the next level, and find new opportunities to advance their career right here at ChildServe.
• We believe we our differences make us great. We are on a continuous journey to create an environment where different perspectives are valued and all feel safe and welcome.
• We’re moving forward together.Experts across multiple disciplines work together to help kids get the best care possible.

ChildServe is an equal opportunity employer. 

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