Job Description

The Design Intern at ChildServe will assist the Foundation department with runway and design support for our annual gala, Bubble Ball. The internship will provide a current high school or college student with 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 2027 will take place on April 3, 2027 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 Sarah Dornink, Runway Director’s studio on 42nd Street in Des Moines.

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

• Collaborate with our Runway Director, Sarah Dornink, to craft runway and specialty act designs

from planning to execution.

• This includes garment curation, sequencing, bedazzling, beginner-friendly sewing, fringing, and

general costume design.

• This is a fashion costuming position at her studio in the Des Moines metro from January 4 - April 2,

2026.

What You'll Need

• Current enrollment as a high school or college student.
• Experience with crafting, sewing, and/or working with textiles.
• Interest in fashion design, costuming, and runway coordination.
• Ability to be a self-starter.
• Flexibility, creativity, and organization skills.
• 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.

Have questions? Reach out to careers@childserve.org for assistance!