Interns Provide Valuable Service

Interns are a key element in our work at PRC. In the Social Services Department, they assist new clients with access to resources and provide information about other PRC services, healthcare, public bene ts, and more. In the Art Program, interns lead, assist with and participate in art groups, and prepare artwork for displays. Hands-on involvement in art workshops is especially important when pursuing art therapy or community art degrees, and working directly with clients in an art setting is a requirement.

For their hard work, interns get to mix their academic learning with actual work experience. This is a great opportunity for students who are interested in working at a nonpro t or social services agency in the future.

Abby Riffell is from Traverse City, Michigan and is a senior at Wheaton College. She is majoring in sociology and art and has been at PRC since January. Through her internship, Abby plans to learn about effective social services practice from her supervisors and gain a deeper understanding of the DuPage County community.

“I am excited for a future in social services after I graduate in May. I love the balance of relational, administrative, and practical work that social workers get to do, and that they are directly involved in supporting their neighbors.”

When asked about the most rewarding part of her experience at PRC, Abby shared the following thought.

“My favorite thing so far is working with intake and getting to meet face to face with clients! I have also appreciated the amount of kindness clients have expressed during phone calls and feel honored to hear their stories.”

Emily Chien grew up in Aurora, Illinois. She is a senior at Benedictine University. She plan to go to graduate school for an art therapy Master’s degree. During her internship, Emily plans to gain more experience with interacting with all ages of clients and be a support to them.

“PRC is a great environment for me to be in, where I can still be in an art environment but also communicate and learn from others. The most rewarding experience so far has de nitely been becoming closer with the students, and having them be more comfortable around me; so they are able to share stories about their lives with me!”

Thank you Abby and Emily for your energy and hard work. We truly appreciate all you do to support our neighbors. Good luck with your future pursuits! Both internships ended in April.