Agency Initiatives Intern

At Helping Hand, we're on a mission to transform lives through genuine care and education, and that includes creating meaningful learning opportunities for future professionals. As the Agency Initiatives Intern, you'll gain hands-on experience while supporting multiple areas of a mission-driven environment.

In this role, you will support projects that span operations, innovation, technology, and organizational initiatives. This is a unique opportunity to work cross-functionally, contribute to meaningful work, and learn how a non-profit operates behind the scenes. You'll collaborate with leaders and teams across the organization while building skills in project coordination, research, and administrative support.

SCHEDULE AND COMPENSATION:

• In-office/On-site position
• 20-25 hours per week. Potential for additional hours based on availability and business/agency needs.
• Must be available for a 12-week work-study internship during the spring, summer, or fall
• Must have occasional evening and weekend availability
• Salary $20.50/hr (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.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

Strategic Initiatives and Innovation

• Assist with research on assistive technology tools, systems, and AI solutions.
• Support the development of tools and applications that enhance programs.
• Contribute to projects related to facilities, sensory spaces, and performance environments.
• Partner with leadership on special initiatives and organizational projects.

Operations and Agency Support

• Provide administrative support (filing, organizing, and documentation).
• Assist with agency-wide initiatives, meetings, and special events.
• Support cross-departmental projects as needs arise.
• Shadow different teams to gain exposure to day-to-day operations.
• Other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU BRING:

Education:

• Must be a current student pursuing a bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Business, Communications, Nonprofit Management, etc.) or have relevant coursework/experience.

Skill Sets:

• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Proactive, team-oriented mindset with a willingness to learn.
• Ability to handle confidential information with professionalism.
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office, Teams, Zoom, etc.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• 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.

Availability:

• Available for an in-person internship (20-25 hours per week).
• Ability to commute to our Countryside/Hodgkins locations.
• Occasional evening/weekend availability

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• The person in this position needs to occasionally move about inside the office to assist others, access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
• The ability to observe details at a close range (within a few feet of the observer).
• The ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information in all situations.
• Consistently position self to maintain files in cabinets or assist team members.
• Ability to work in a shared multi-task, multi-person business office.
• Ability to work both in-office responsibilities as well as community outreach activities which may include both indoor and outdoor venues.

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.