The Volunteer and Community Programs department is devoted to advancing the Museum’s commitment to inclusion and broadening our impact in the community. Through a spectrum of community relations activities, we initiate, develop and maintain an array of relationships that focus on both audience development and the communication of the MFA’s programs and resources with city and community-based organizations.
Teen Programs includes the capstone project, the Teen Arts Council (TAC). The TAC is a leadership development program that utilizes the apprenticeship model with a group of teenagers which serves to connect the MFA with Greater Boston’s teens, families and communities. In paid positions, the TAC members are introduced to a wide range of museum professions and learning opportunities while also gaining valuable work experience. Throughout the year, TAC members have the opportunity to work on a variety of activities such as creating and producing teen focused events, greeting and giving information to Museum visitors, and creating wall labels to accompany the Museum’s art collections. They also attend workshops and training sessions designed to develop their creative and critical thinking skills.
Responsibilities:
• Assist the Teen Programs Manager with weekly operation of the TAC program
• Support the TAC members in developing career, organizational and social competencies
• Perform research related to the MFA’s community engagement strategy
• Maintain communication with both internal staff and external community partners who work with the TAC
Qualifications:
• Passionate interest in Youth and/or Program Development, Art, Community Relations and Public Affairs
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
• Outstanding interpersonal skills
• Experience working with teens/youth in a professional setting
• Familiarity and experience with the non-profit sector, especially social and cultural organizations
• Keen interest in community relationship building from a local and global perspective
• Bi-lingual/multi-lingual skills a plus
• Commit to 25-30 hours a week starting late May through mid-August
• Ability to attend orientation on either Tues. May 28th (9am-12pm) or Tues. June 11th (9am-12pm)
Educational Component
The Volunteer and Community Programs department is experiencing a significant amount of growth. Interns will have the opportunity to make considerable contributions to the inner-workings of the department with particular emphasis on youth initiatives. Successful interns will receive tangible educational benefits such as:
• Assisting in the research, planning and implementation process required in launching/sustaining new initiatives within the MFA’s Teen Programs
• Pursuing learning and networking opportunities within the Museum