August 2019 –– — It’s been an amazing summer of jazz with the largest JazzArts Summer Camp ever, record-breaking sellouts in the JAZZ ROOM, and busy plans for new Fall programs as we dig into our 10 year anniversary. Behind the scenes, two summer interns have been a significant reason for reaching these goals.

This summer Olivia Worsham, in her final year at UNCC, and Alexis Rogers, in her final year at Belmont Abbey, have been the driving force to all of our social media, email, and newsletter content. “I truly feel like this internship gave me more knowledge than any class could have taught me,” says Alexis.

In addition to expanding our internal efforts, they have each improved our future effectiveness with analyses, process improvements, and best practices. “No matter how great, a staff of five can only have so much expertise,” recognizes Rebecka Nelli, Marketing Director and the interns’ manager. “Volunteers are the lifeblood of a nonprofit like ours.” In total, JazzArts Charlotte volunteer support added 50% more bandwidth to its efforts this past year. “that’s a dramatic impact to the mission.”

JazzArts Charlotte’s mission is intertwined with the idea of making all of its programs accessible. “It is important to me that we aren’t just a jazz show” says founder and CEO Lonnie Davis. “our vision to expand the exposure to music and continue to make the community connections that jazz has always been known for is at the heart of everything we do.” Paying musicians a fair wage for their skill is also embedded in that mission. To make those two critical philosophies connect, we rely on an amazing array of volunteers.

This fits with the spirit of jazz. From its very beginnings, jazz has been a means to connect community, elevate needs, and be a catalyst for societal change.
The best internships are those where both the intern and the organization grow together. For JazzArts Charlotte, it has been a fruitful summer.

If the idea of supporting JazzArts Charlotte sounds fun to you, we agree! We are currently seeking support for the Fall season for a variety of roles and would love to speak with you. Call 704-334-2900 or email info@thejazzarts.org and let us know how you’d like to help.