Therapeutic Recreation Internship 2025

We strive to create an inclusive environment in which all are seen, heard, and supported; encouraged to bring their whole authentic selves; and honored in their differences.

Program Summary

The Therapeutic Recreation Intern is responsible with assisting in all aspects of TR Programming, while being supervised by a Nationally Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). Following the Therapeutic Recreation department's mission, vision, and strategic plan the intern will provide program leadership and development. Interns will provide a safe, structured environment to build friendships, encourage physical and social activity, become involved members of the community, and embrace health and wellness. Interns will assist with the planning and implementing of the activity calendars, participant caseload ensuring all documentation is current and accurate, communicating/collaborating with partnerships, families/caregivers, community advocates, St. David's Center peers, etc. to provide the best care for all participants. Interns will work 40 hours a week throughout the duration of their internship. The Therapeutic Recreation Intern is supervised by the Therapeutic Recreation Program Coordinator.

Reasonable accommodations may be requested to enable individuals with disabilities. Please contact the Policy, Training & Talent Department to request reasonable accommodations.

Position Overview

Through therapeutic recreation we work on the enhancement of physical, cognitive, social, and affective development of every individual through personalized Therapeutic Recreation goals. Therapeutic Recreation interns are a critical part of our team and are actively involved in all programing. Working alongside Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists, interns learn to support, then plan and facilitate therapeutic interventions that target social and emotional development. Interns learn to create individualized goals and plan of cares. Interns also assist in refining program procedures and administrative duties to enhance the quality of services for clients, families, and staff.

Responsibilities Include

• Assist with planning, coordinating, and implementing activities related to After School, Release Days, Adventure Night Out, Summer Adventure, Venture Forward, and Destination…Anywhere!
• Collaborate with families, school staff, and other community partners to implement programming that meets the unique needs of all participants and to ensure program support including space, facility use, and hours of operation.
• Assist with monitoring and reviewing each client's plan of care, making sure it is up to date and accurate to their needs.
• Seek opportunities for leadership, collaborative teamwork, and innovative ideas. Assist in refining program procedures and administrative duties to enhance the quality of services for families and staff.
• Provide for the care and monitor the safety of the participant(s), assuring that their rights as an individual are maintained.
• Integrate the participant(s) into group social settings and assist with community involvement by participating in all activities with the participants.
• Encourage and motivate participation in group setting(s) and/or in the community, promoting developmentally appropriate activities, promoting positive behavior(s) and encouraging peer interactions among program participant(s).
• Ensuring participant(s) safety in the community as well as active communication and emotional regulation.
  
  

This position offers the opportunity to work for an agency that is committed to inclusivity and diversity, employee wellness, the professional development of employees and the overall wellness of clients being served. St. David's Center accomplishes these objectives through supportive & collaborative team environments, flexible work schedules and mission-inspired work.

Schedule: 40 Hours/Week

• Seasonal Internship (14-16 consecutive weeks)
  
  

Specific hours or days

Fall (Sept- Dec)

M-F 10:00 am-6:00 pm

Spring (Jan-Apr)

M-F 10:00 am-6:00 pm

Summer (May-Aug)

M-F 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Preferred Application Window*

April & May

September & October

February & March

Internship length

14-16 Weeks

14-16 Weeks

15-16 Weeks

Weekend hours

1-2 weekends

1-2 weekends

None

• will accept applications at any time, however, cannot guarantee available openings outside the preferred window.
  
  

Required Application Materials: Resume and Cover Letter

• 2 Letters of Recommendation will be required upon interview
  
  

Pay: Unpaid Internship; eligible for mileage reimbursement

Internship Qualifications

You might be an ideal candidate if you meet the following qualifications:

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must have a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and an acceptable driving record.
• Currently enrolled in a university earning either a bachelor's or master's degree in Therapeutic Recreation or Recreation with an emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation, or other related field (Psychology, social sciences, education, health care and/or human services).
  
  

If other majors can use paid-support staff position as internship/practicum hours, we can be flexible on providing additional supervision or evaluations as needed for their specific programs. If you are interested in applying to a paid position to complete internship/practicum hours, please apply to our DSP of Therapeutic Recreation positions.

• Applicants must have the ability to use clear and understandable written and verbal English.
• Must be able to monitor the safety and well-being of the participant(s) by managing, both verbally and physically, and active or behaviorally involved participant(s).
• Ability to learn and perform procedures for the care of an individual with intellectual/development disabilities.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both through written and verbal communication.
• Demonstrate good organization skills and problem-solving skills.
  
  

Preferred

• First Aid and CPR Certification preferred
  
  

No experience with people with disabilities is required; however, a desire to work with people and a willingness to learn is essential. Experience with individuals with disabilities highly desired.

St. David's Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status or disability.