Information for Hosts
Why host an intern?
Have you envisioned who will succeed your organization's board and staff positions over the next twenty years?
The need for new leadership in the cooperative sector has never been so great. We need people who possess not only the necessary skills to perform their jobs, but also the vision and dedication to bring a movement into the new millennium.
In order to thrive, we must educate future co-op leaders about cooperative models and values as a viable alternative to traditional business models.
How can future leaders today learn about cooperatives?
By hosting an intern, your co-op does more than meet project needs; you are building the skills and experience of the next generation of the cooperative movement.
You are training future co-op leaders today.
NASCO encourages internship hosts to provide a:
- A meaningful internship of at least three months which allows the intern to develop specific employability skills
- Mentoring and supervision to ensure mutual learning benefits for the host organizations and the interns
- Educational activities organized for the intern to demonstrate the values and principles of cooperative organizations
Compensation
Compensation for interns is the responsibility of the host organization and varies widely. Most internships offer salaries; others offer room, board, and a small stipend.
Costs
Participating in the program is free for NASCO member organizations. For non-member organizations, the administration fee is $200 USD per intern, if matching is successful. A $75 USD deposit is required, though will be returned if a suitable intern is not found. You may post multiple internship positions with one flat administration fee.
Start & End Dates
Many of our internship applicants are students. Late May or early June to late August are recommended start and end dates.
Deadline for Applications is February 24.
For advice on developing an internship program in your cooperative, contact NASCO at 773.404.2667 or network[at]nasco.coop.