shape the future workforce

Intern Impact

Thrive West Central is proud to present a business case analysis for a new community-based internship program in West Central. We are calling this initiative Intern Impact, a 10-week summer community-based internship (CBI) program designed to support high school graduates and students from local higher education institutions. This program spans the region’s six counties—Clay, Putnam, Vermillion, Sullivan, Parke, and Vigo—offering participants an immersive experience that will shape their future career and life decisions in the region. We have outlined the foundational components, best practices, programming, and a mock schedule/calendar for an organization to take and build upon.

The Program’s Mission

Intern Impact aims to help students develop leadership skills, engage with local communities, and receive mentorship from professionals within the area. The program encourages participants to explore the region’s diverse opportunities while providing practical solutions, such as housing stipends, to make it easier for them to live and work locally during their internship.

The ultimate goal is to retain talent in West Central Indiana by helping students make informed decisions about settling in the region after graduation. It addresses a key concern: while many students graduate from local schools, they often feel disconnected from employment opportunities in the area and seek guidance on available career paths.

The Importance of Community-Based Internships

A community-based internship program can be a powerful tool for retaining graduates. Research highlights several key factors that contribute to the success of such programs:

  • Equitable Employment Opportunities: Providing fair and accessible job options post-graduation is essential for retaining talent in the region.
  • Increased Awareness: Many students lack knowledge about the local job market, and Intern Impact aims to bridge that gap by connecting them with businesses, organizations, and community leaders.

  • Affinity and Retention: Retention rates are heavily influenced by personal and professional affinity—students who form strong connections with their communities, families, or employers are more likely to stay.

  • Well-Designed Internships: High-quality, meaningful internships can be the key to keeping graduates in the region, but there’s a need to collaborate with businesses willing to sponsor these opportunities.

Building on Successful Models

The design of Intern Impact is backed by a thorough analysis of successful community-based internships across Indiana and the nation. Input from local universities, chambers of commerce, and workforce development groups contributed to crafting a program that not only benefits students but also serves the long-term needs of West Central Indiana communities.

The pilot plan for Intern Impact sets the stage for lasting impact. By providing experiential learning opportunities and fostering connections between students and local businesses, the program will help students envision their futures in West Central Indiana. The hope is that Intern Impact will become a sustainable initiative that helps retain the region’s talented graduates, creating a vibrant and thriving community for years to come.

Stay tuned for more updates on how Intern Impact will shape the future workforce of West Central Indiana!