Summer Stars Fieldwork/Internship

Join Our Vibrant Team at DSAWM!

Are you a college student passionate about inclusivity, working with children that have disabilities, and eager to make a meaningful impact?

DSAWM invites you to apply for our Summer Stars Fieldwork/Internship. This role is perfect for students looking to fulfill their college program requirements in a dynamic, supportive, and mission-driven nonprofit environment.

We're dedicated to enhancing the lives within the Down syndrome community in West Michigan, and we need your help to make our Summer Stars program a success!

Fieldwork/Internship Overview:

The Summer Stars program offers a unique and engaging opportunity for kids with Down syndrome to continue learning, develop new skills, and build friendships throughout the summer. Through a variety of thoughtfully designed activities, including games, crafts, and outdoor play, the program helps children meet their IEP (Individualized Education Program) goals while supporting their overall development. With a structured routine that balances education and fun, this program provides a summer of growth, enjoyment, and achievement.

In this role, you will be paired with one or two children with Down syndrome in grades 1-6, each with a diverse range of abilities. You'll collaborate closely with our Program Coordinator and other team members to implement group activities designed to help children learn through play while incorporating educational, therapeutic, and social goals. This program offers you the unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on children’s lives by helping them continue their learning journey during the summer months and avoid the risk of regression.

Schedule:

The Fieldwork/Internship will begin May 27th for training and preparation. The Summer Stars program itself runs from June 9th to August 7th and will take place Mondays through Thursdays from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

There will be an optional early drop-off for children starting at 12:00 PM, and students will be expected to be present from at least 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM to assist with early drop-off and extended programming. Students will have the following days off:

• May 26th
• June 19th
• June 30th - July 3rd
• July 21st - July 24th

Students are required to be available during the program dates, with the exception of the listed break periods.

Your Impact:

• Summer Stars Program:
  • Work directly with children that have Down syndrome and encourage the children to engage in activities as well as support them as they work to accomplish goals.
  • Plan, facilitate, and adapt group therapeutic activities.
  • Document interaction and involvement with children and track goals per program protocol.
  • Manage behaviors of children.
  • Create a fun and safe environment.
• Support Tasks: 
  • Collaborate with other staff, interns, and volunteers.
  • Select and gather materials.
  • Assist children in the bathroom or with other personal hygiene or ADL’s as necessary.
  • Support other member programming as needed.

We’re Looking For:

• A motivated college student who is reliable, eager to learn, and passionate about contributing to a nonprofit setting dedicated to supporting children with disabilities.
• Preferred Spanish and English, as we aim to extend our outreach and inclusivity to Spanish-speaking communities.
• Basic American Sign Language (ASL) is a plus, or willingness to learn.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to multitask, adapt in a fast-paced environment, and collaborate effectively with a team.

Additional Details:

This Fieldwork/Internship position is designed to offer a well-rounded and hands-on experience in therapy and education, providing valuable skills applicable in many career paths. The position requires program attendance in Grand Rapids, necessitating a reliable mode of transportation. Our building is located on the bus line.

This Fieldwork/Internship offers a minimum stipend of $1,000.

The schedule is flexible with your college/university requirements.

DSAWM is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment, including reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

Join Us!

If you're ready to contribute to our mission and gain invaluable experience at DSAWM, please send your resume and cover letter to program@dsawm.org detailing your interest in this Fieldwork/Internship and how it aligns with your academic and career goals. The deadline is April 18th.

We're excited to expand our team with students dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

We look forward to welcoming you into our community!

Have Questions?

Contact our Program Coordinator, Maria, at program@dsawm.org