The Guilford Foundation is pleased to welcome Guilford High School seniors Elizabeth Reale and Kaelyn Bruce as its 2026–2027 student interns. Throughout the year, they will have the opportunity to learn about philanthropy, community foundations, and the nonprofit organizations serving Guilford while gaining hands-on experience in marketing and communications.

“Our internship program is really about exposure and exploration,” said TGF Executive Director Liza Janssen Petra. “We want Elizabeth and Kaelyn to see firsthand how a community foundation works, meet the people leading organizations throughout Guilford, and understand the role philanthropy can play in strengthening a community. At the same time, we hope they gain practical experience and discover skills and interests that will be valuable wherever their paths take them next.”

Elizabeth is already familiar with TGF, having joined the Foundation’s Youth Advisory Group in 2023. A senior pursuing the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma at Guilford High School, she is active in GHS Theatre Arts and the Youth Feminist Alliance and is an editor and writer for the school newspaper. She also volunteers with Pilgrim Fellowship and is taking flight lessons.

Kaelyn is also a senior pursuing the IB Diploma at Guilford High School. She writes for the school newspaper, serves as co-president of the Interact Club, participates in indoor and outdoor track, and is managing the field hockey team this fall. Her community involvement includes Pilgrim Fellowship, volunteering at Community Nursery School, and working at WAVE Gelato.

As TGF interns, Elizabeth and Kaelyn will get a behind-the-scenes look at the many ways the Foundation connects donors, nonprofits, and community needs. They will meet with staff, attend community and nonprofit events, and learn about TGF’s grantmaking, sponsorships, charitable funds, and other programs.

They will also put their own skills to work. From social media, writing, and website content to event support and storytelling, Kaelyn and Elizabeth will help TGF share the people and stories behind its community impact. A major project this fall will be helping launch GuilfordVolunteers.org, a new resource designed to connect residents who want to volunteer with local organizations that need their time and talents.

The internship is intentionally flexible, allowing Elizabeth and Kaelyn to explore the aspects of the work that interest them most while balancing a busy senior year. TGF hopes they finish the experience with a better understanding of their community, meaningful professional experience, and a greater appreciation for the many ways people can use their own skills and interests to make a difference.