Design Intern Ames, IA

Design Intern job s, IA.

The
Design Intern at Child Serve 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 Child Serve’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.

8-10 hours/week, during standard business hours. Can be flexible with class and other work schedules. Work will be completed at our Child Serve location 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.

• 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.

• 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 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.

Child Serve is an equal opportunity employer.