Interns And The Community: A Perfect Pair
Janet Boston
Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowWhile involving interns in your organization is an important aspect of an internship program, engaging them in the community should be included as well.
Community engagement is a significant factor in a young professional’s decision regarding where he or she lives and works. Fostering a feeling of community attachment can lead to talent retention in Indiana.
Talent retention is at the core of Indiana INTERNnet’s mission. To complement the real-world experience interns gain on the job, Indiana INTERNnet hosts engagement events to provide an opportunity for interns to build relationships through networking and to develop community pride.
“These events are important because they show there are things to do in Indy. Whether it’s networking, professional development or volunteering, Indy has it to offer,” says Tiffany Hackett, Indiana Farm Bureau talent acquisition administrator.
This summer, Indiana INTERNnet has five summer events on its lineup. All are free to attend.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis event will begin at 9 a.m. on May 31 with an interactive workshop. During check-in, which will begin at 8:30 a.m., interns will be invited to participate in a networking activity. Following the workshop, attendees will be free to explore The Children’s Museum until it closes at 5 p.m. Guests will have access to the immersive 7.5-acre Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience. Lunch will not be provided, but attendees may bring their own or purchase at the museum. Capacity is limited and online registration is required.
Indy Intern Connect, hosted in partnership with the Indy Chamber, will begin at 5 p.m. on June 1 at the Fountain Square Theatre Rooftop Garden. Network with local professionals and enjoy the festivities of First Friday with drinks, duckpin bowling, food and open artist galleries throughout Fountain Square. Online registration is required.
The Indianapolis Zoo experience will start at 1 p.m. on July 10. During the day, interns will participate in networking and a panel discussion with representatives from various career fields. They will also have the chance to compete in a scavenger hunt for prizes while exploring the zoo. The newest exhibit of long-tailed macaques will be open! Food will not be provided, but guests are welcome to eat beforehand or purchase something from concessions. Due to capacity restrictions, a maximum of two intern supervisors per company may attend. The deadline to register is June 29.
The Indiana State Fair event will begin at 9 a.m. (check-in: 8 a.m.) on August 3 with a welcome and networking activity. During the programming, interns can compete in a trivia contest to win prizes. After that, guests will be able to explore the Indiana State Fair at their leisure. The deadline to register is July 12.
Indiana INTERNnet is partnering with the Indiana Sports Corp to host an intern networking event during the cycling time trial leg of its Corporate Challenge on August 22. Interns are invited to enjoy food, drinks, games and networking with Young Professionals groups at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The event will run from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The deadline to register is August 17.
If you would like to RSVP for the Indianapolis Zoo, the Indiana State Fair and/or the Indiana Sports Corp events, please contact INTERNnet@indianachamber.com or call (317) 264-6852.