Be a Part of SBTHP
VOLUNTEER
Are you curious about the history of our community? Or are you passionate about sharing stories of the diverse people and cultures who call Santa Barbara County home?
The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation Is looking for volunteers like you to fulfill many opportunities at school and public programs, and events at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park and Casa de la Guerra. Connect with other locals to lead arts and crafts activities, assist in our archives and collections, provide historic interpretation for both youth and adults, and even help maintain our historic gardens.
INTERNSHIPS
Higman Internship Spring 2026
Marketing & Fundraising Events Internship
Start date: End of March 2026
Weekly hours: 10/hrs a week
Duration: March-June 2026
Rate/stipend amount: $2,500
ABOUT THE SANTA BARBARA TRUST FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION
The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation (SBTHP) is a nonprofit that operates El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park for the State of California and owns and operates Casa de la Guerra in downtown Santa Barbara. As a county-wide preservation organization that also manages an urban historic park which includes museums, archaeological sites, and numerous historic structures, we provide educational programs for both school and the general public that addresses the region’s multi-ethnic past and present.
Scope of duties
Under the supervision of the Associate Director for Advancement, intern duties may include:
Support for the organization's marketing and communications efforts
Assist with the planning and execution of Development/fundraising events
Assist with the development and implementation of marketing campaigns
Create engaging content for social media platforms and assist with the management of the organization's social media presence
Support for the organization’s fundraising efforts
Conduct research on marketing trends and best practices
The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated and creative individual with a passion for the nonprofit sector. This internship is ideal for someone with a strong interest in one or more of the following areas:
Fundraising and event management
Social media marketing
Event planning
Qualifications
Upper division undergraduate student or graduate student standing
Experience and/or demonstrated interest in marketing, communications, event planning, fundraising
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Excellent writing and communication skills
Strong social media skills
Experience with graphic design software is a plus including Adobe Creative Suite, Canva
Experience working with Microsoft Office and familiarity with databases
Ability to work well with a diverse group of people
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Experience with photography is a plus
Benefits:
Gain real-world experience in the nonprofit sector
Develop valuable marketing and communications skills
Network with professionals in the field
Make a meaningful contribution to the mission of SBTHP
Application Process
Please send a resume and a one-page cover letter describing your relevant experience and interest in this position. Please send materials as a PDF to Yvonne Leal, yvonne@sbthp.org.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with a final deadline of March 11. The successful candidate will be asked to start in this role late March.
WORK WITH US
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS
REPORTS TO: Associate Director for Public Engagement
CLASSIFICATION: Regular, full-time, non-exempt
SCOPE OF POSITION: Working with the Associate Director for Public Engagement and related committees, the Director of Programs creates and implements a range of public and school programs that support the mission of SBTHP and provide access to the historic properties managed by the organization. Oversees recruitment and training of volunteers to support programs and creates related program curriculum materials. Supervises program staff and related volunteers. Works as part of a team managed by the Associate Director for Public Engagement to support all aspects of the public experience at SBTHP’s historic properties.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Develops school programs which meet State Social Studies and other curriculum framework requirements for all grade levels. Responds to the needs of educational institutions (teachers) for in-class, on-site, and virtual visits. Ensures scheduling of all school visits, group tours and other programs.
Cultivates a strong working relationship with teachers, school administrators and other community stakeholders and partner institutions. Creates opportunities for teacher professional development (in-service programs).
Responsible for development, implementation, evaluation and promotion of public programs that serve the mission of SBTHP and its strategic initiatives, including festivals, lectures, film screenings and others.
Responsible for recruitment, training, management, and evaluation of program staff, interns, and volunteers, and cross training Visitor Experience Assistants and Event Attendants to support public and school programs.
Develops, writes and produces materials and media to enhance programs utilizing multi-media equipment, and applying best practices for linking technology with ideas.
Develops, prepares, and administers annual program department budget, ensuring that revenue/expense goals are met.
Provides data, narrative information, images, etc. upon request by the Associate Director for Public Engagement to support grant applications and reporting.
Works closely with colleagues in the Public Engagement Division, including the Director of Visitor Experience and the Director of the Presidio Research Center, to collectively support the public experience at historic sites managed by SBTHP.
Provides written and oral reports on the status of existing and new programs as requested.
SBTHP is a diverse organization with a small staff and many activities; all staff members, including the Director of Programs, must be versatile and cooperative in carrying out a variety of responsibilities and duties as assigned by the Executive Director.
QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor of Arts degree in education, history, archaeology, or a closely related field required. Experience in teaching, strong oral, written, organizational and interpersonal skills, along with good computer and multi-media skills required. Outgoing and confident manner, leadership skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, perform well under pressure, and deal with awkward situations required. Must be available to work occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays. A Master’s degree, or three-year’s equivalent experience in a teaching or museum/nonprofit education program preferred. Proficiency in Spanish, and experience teaching all age groups and volunteer management preferred. Experience with audio/video equipment, editing software and video conferencing tools like Zoom preferred.
Applicants with demonstrated experience that will support the organization’s mission and values will be prioritized.
Start Date: ASAP
Typical Schedule: Office hours are 8:30 – 5:30, Monday through Friday. This position will work regular office hours with flexibility to manage evening and weekend programs.
Salary: $30 - $34/hour plus benefit package
Application Process: A complete application form, cover letter and resume are required. The cover letter should include a statement about how your experience will support the organization’s mission and values. Please send application package to Kevin McGarry, kevin@sbthp.org
Ready to Join Us?
Become a member today and take part in deepening the legacy of Santa Barbara through place, story, and community.