Church / Organization Internship Details

Churches and Organizations offer internships for many reasons. They see student interns as fruitful and economical resources with which they can accomplish projects not otherwise possible. They believe interns bring enthusiasm and new ideas into work settings and make strong future team members. 

An Internship is…

• An Exchange:  The student agrees to complete work that will benefit the host Church/organization and in return is offered the opportunity to learn new skills, expand his or her knowledge of a particular field and explore career options. 

• An Investment: A Church or organization should ensure that a current member of their staff will have the time and capacity to oversee Intern(s) and provide learning opportunities as well as coaching through teachable moments.

• A Development Opportunity: A fine balance must be cultivated between ensuring the student has a meaningful learning experience and addressing the completion of more routine work responsibilities involved in all positions and projects. A good rule of thumb would be that 60% of the internship responsibilities are professional and 40% of the internship responsibilities are part of daily operational routine. 

An Internship is not…

• A Go-fer Position: A fine balance must be cultivated between ensuring the student has a meaningful learning experience and addressing the completion of more routine work responsibilities involved in all positions and projects. Please use the 60/40 guideline stated above.

• A Guaranteed Next Hire: Although some interns are offered part-time or full-time employment as a result of contacts they make during their internships, there is no guarantee that an internship will result in a student becoming a permanent staff member. The best way for students to gain career and job advantages during an internship is by building information and referral networks.

Student & Church Commitments..

• Time: 8-weeks - ideally June 1 - July 31st

• Financial: Housing and stipend for basic living needs are provided

• Staff: Ensure that someone on your team has the capacity to oversee the Intern(s) - assign projects, meet weekly for direction and feedback, and provide regular training.

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