LifeTown’s Internship Program Makes a Lasting Impact

Gaining experience in a chosen field is crucial to achieving success. After years of informally welcoming college interns, LifeTown is now launching a formal internship program, an exciting new step for the organization. The unique, adaptive recreational center for children, teens and adults with special needs is the perfect place for college students to expand upon skills and training learned in the classroom.

“The hands-on experience has been incredible,” said Nicole Stoehr, a teaching student at Ramapo College. Stoehr began interning at LifeTown to complete requisite volunteer hours in special education. “Interning at LifeTown provided me with a deep understanding of what those with special needs experience in their everyday lives.”

The internship program offers a variety of flexible opportunities at LifeTown. College students can choose to complete hours during mornings, afternoons or evenings. In addition, there is a large selection of programming to choose from, including morning and after school group classes, swimming at the adaptive indoor pool, bowling nights, and special events.

“I volunteered at the Bubble Show,” said Stoehr of a recent family event. “I was paired up with a girl who was nervous about being there, but I convinced her to stay. She ended up loving it so much. It was amazing to watch her apprehension turn into excitement. Her dad was so grateful and that’s when I knew this was a place I belonged.”

Experiences gained through LifeTown’s internship program impact students for a lifetime. Working with children, teens, and adults with special needs provides a unique perspective and skill set for those interested in careers such as teaching, occupational and speech therapy, and special education. The hands-on experience gained at LifeTown will benefit students as they graduate college and step into the workforce.

“After interning at LifeTown, I am now considering getting my disability studies certificate because I’ve enjoyed this experience so much,” said Stoehr. “The patience and empathy I honed through my internship will be applied in my career and every aspect of my life.”

For more information about LifeTown’s internship program, contact: info@LifeTown.com.