This summer, The Arc of Essex County was proud to welcome interns through an internship program sponsored by a generous grant from the Career Accelerator Internship Grant Program. Over the course of the summer, our interns brought enthusiasm, fresh perspectives, and a willingness to learn while making meaningful contributions across several areas of the organization.

Two interns, Brooke and Jessica, spent their summer supporting Camp Hope, where they helped create an engaging summer experience for campers. Francesca and Robert served as Events and Communications Interns, assisting with preparations for our upcoming Uncorked and Uncapped fundraiser and gaining hands-on experience in nonprofit communications and event planning. And Jake worked with our Human Resources and Finance teams, contributing to projects across both departments.

Throughout the summer, each intern had the opportunity to build professional skills while learning more about The Arc’s mission and the work that goes into supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Some of the interns were able to be compensated through the CAIGP, and others received credit from their universities.

For Jake, the experience offered opportunities to explore his interests and take on meaningful responsibilities.

“My time interning at The Arc of Essex County has been more impactful than I could have ever imagined. Everybody I have worked with has been an amazing mentor, and they have done so much for my own professional development,” Jake shared. “I was introduced to projects designed around my interests and given the opportunity to lead my own initiatives.”

Francesca also reflected on the connections she made and the opportunity to contribute while developing her professional skills. “This was an amazing summer learning experience,” she says. “I was able to make real connections and contribute to The Arc’s mission while also gaining professional knowledge!”

To mark the conclusion of the program, staff and interns came together for a special end-of-summer breakfast. We are proud of the work all five interns accomplished and grateful for the energy and dedication they brought to their roles.

And the good news is that our internship program isn’t ending with summer! Thanks to continued sponsorship from CAIGP, The Arc of Essex County is currently offering an Events and Communications internship and an IT internship for the fall season. We extend our thanks to CAIGP for making these valuable internship experiences possible and congratulate our summer interns on a job well done!