Inclusion Summer Internship

About the Y
The YMCA of the North Shore is proud to offer high-quality education, childcare, recreation, and summer camp programming across our seven facilities located throughout the North Shore of Massachusetts.

At the Y, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to participate in our programs and experience a genuine sense of belonging. To support this vision, we’ve made a significant investment in our Inclusion Team. Our Inclusion Specialists take a holistic approach to child support, incorporating best practices across all programs. They develop individualized support plans, provide staff coaching, and collaborate closely with families and community partners.

Now Offering Internship Opportunities
We’re excited to expand our team by offering unique internship opportunities for students who are passionate about inclusivity and child development. This internship could be the right fit for you if you're pursuing a degree in mental health, psychology, social work, special education, or education—and if you’re driven to make a difference in the life of every child.

What You’ll Do
As an intern, you will work alongside experienced Inclusion Specialists and program leaders to support children in our Early Learning, School Age, or Recreation programs. You'll help implement individual support plans, guide staff, monitor and document behaviors, and contribute meaningfully as a collaborative team member. You'll also gain hands-on experience with social-emotional curriculum, work one-on-one with children, and develop an understanding of behavioral patterns and their underlying causes.

This internship is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the supportive culture of the YMCA, gain professional experience, and build connections with community partners and YMCA leaders.

Internship Wrap-Up
All interns will receive support in meeting their college course requirements as outlined in their learning agreement. At the conclusion of the internship, you will complete a final project and present your experience and insights to the Director of Inclusion.

• A minimum of 8 weeks, one semester or based on school curriculum criteria and availability
• 15-20 hours per week as defined by the school internship requirements
• YMCA Locations include Ipswich, Essex, Gloucester, Marblehead, Swampscott, and Beverly.
• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age. Applicants must be attending college or university and seeking experience within a related field of study to be considered for an internship.
• Demonstrated interest in education, social work, childcare, occupational therapy, applied behavior analysis, physical education, human services, psychology or related fields of study.
• A demonstrated interest in community collaborations and the development of local services that support and advance the mission of the Y.
• All interns must complete and submit an application to be considered for a position with YNS. 
• Some educational institutions require prior approval before the start of an internship. It is the responsibility of the student to check with their institution to be sure they meet any requirements before they accept a position. 
• Interns will partner with the Inclusion Specialist to submit and complete an internship learning agreement that will be submitted to the Director of Inclusion. 
• This is an unpaid internship. 

The YMCA is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religious creed, protected genetic information, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran's status.