Connection Crew Intern in Countryside, Illinois at Helping Hand

At Helping Hand, we believe that all people are equally valued, and we're looking for a passionate, creative, and motivated student to join our team as a Connection Crew Intern. This is more than a typical internship; it is an opportunity to empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities while gaining hands-on experience in community engagement, advocacy, digital media, volunteer coordination, and nonprofit work.

If you're looking for an internship where you can develop professional skills, make meaningful connections, and directly impact lives, we'd love to meet you.

As a Connection Crew Intern, you'll help support a unique program focused on self-advocacy, community involvement, leadership development, podcast production, and social media storytelling. You'll work alongside adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and share their voices in the community.

SCHEDULE AND COMPENSATION:

• On-site position
• Must be available for a 15-week work-study internship during Summer 2026.
• 15 hours per week, approximately 3 hours per day, Monday-Friday.
• Opportunities for additional outreach hours up to 25 hours per week.
• Salary range $20.50/hour (hourly/non-exempt).

HELPING HAND PERKS:

• Purpose-driven work that changes lives.
• Team member appreciation events and year-round recognition.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness support.
• PSLF-qualifying employer under the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

• Manage the daily Connection Crew sessions.
• Support 6-8 adult participants during group activities and projects.
• Encourage participation, engagement, and self-expression.
• Help prepare materials and activities for each session.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and person-centered environment.
• Podcast and social media production.
• Develop an Equally Valued presentation for each client.
• Provide support for outreach and volunteer events through on-site assistance when local.
• Uphold organizational values and foster an inclusive, equitable, and collaborative environment.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

WHAT YOU BRING:

Education:

• Must be a current student pursuing a bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Business, Communications, Non-Profit Management, HR, Marketing, etc.)

Availability:

• Must be available for a 15-week work-study internship during the summer.
• Additional outreach activities will be offered for additional hours each week.
• Occasional evening or weekend availability required.
• If the intern is local, they may occasionally be asked to assist with on-site events or activities.

Skill Sets:

• Must be able to maintain appropriate confidentiality and integrity to handle sensitive information in a confidential manner.
• Must have reliable transportation to and from Helping Hand and other various events (when needed).
• Must have a valid driver's license with ongoing personal motor vehicle insurance.
• Flexibility to work in various settings.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize the needs of the agency.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook), Teams, Zoom, etc.
• A proactive team-oriented mindset and a willingness to learn.
• Ability to promote and adhere to company values.
• A commitment to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment.
• Ability to attend team and agency meetings as required by the position.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• The work environment includes both in-office responsibilities as well as community outreach activities, which may include both indoor and outdoor venues.
• The ability to observe details at a close range (within a few feet of the observer).
• Consistently position oneself to maintain files in cabinets or assist others.
• The ability to communicate information and ideas so that others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information in all situations.

Helping Hand is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We believe that embracing our differences strengthens our community and enhances the quality of care we provide.