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The Specialized Recreation and Inclusions Services (SRIS) Therapeutic Recreation (TR) internship offers students hands-on experience working in a community-based setting providing therapeutic recreation services for individuals with various intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or physical disabilities. Interns will work under the supervision of a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) and alongside other recreational professionals to develop, implement, and evaluate inclusive programs that enhance quality of life, promote independence, and support the physical, emotional, and social well-being of participants.
Throughout the internship, interns will gain skills in conducting assessments, creating individualized support plans, adapting & modifying activities, and leading group sessions in a variety of settings including adaptive sports, outdoor recreation, arts, social events, community-based outings, seasonal camps, and an adult day program. Interns will also have the opportunity to collaborate with various program areas and gain insight into community-based therapeutic recreation services, planning community events, and advocating for accessibility and inclusion in recreational programming. Additionally, interns will complete a special project that aligns with their interests and contributes to the department, the community, and the field of therapeutic recreation.
The TR internship program offered through the City of Raleigh adheres to standards set by NCTRC and the university. SRIS TR internships are 15 weeks and a minimum of 600 hours. No less than 20 hours per week or more than 45 hours per week will be accepted for the internship experience. Hours are typically scheduled Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. -5:00 p.m. with various nights and weekend hours expected.
Qualifications
The SRIS Therapeutic Recreation Internship is open to students pursuing a degree in Recreational Therapy who are passionate about promoting inclusivity and well-being through community recreation.
TR interns must be in the internship semester of either an undergraduate or graduate degree program at an accredited university majoring in Recreational Therapy with the intention to sit for the NCTRC Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist exam.
Additional Minimum Qualifications:
- Possess the appropriate education and fieldwork meeting university requirements to be eligible to complete Therapeutic Recreation internship.
- Experience working with youth and/or adults with disabilities.
- Experience administering a variety of treatment modalities using the APIED process.
- Ability to take initiative and successfully work both independently and in team settings.
- Strong leadership and communications skills.
- Proficient at Microsoft Office and the use of other office software and equipment
Benefits
The SRIS team consists of 6 full-time staff who are Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist and Licensed Recreational Therapists providing various experiences and leadership styles.
The City of Raleigh provides paid internships at $15.00/hour.
How to Apply
Undergraduate and graduate students seeking a Therapeutic Recreation internship with Specialized Recreation and Inclusion Services must apply online during the application window identified for a specific semester. Students will be asked to submit a cover letter and resume, answer supplemental questions, and provide references. Once the application window is closed, all applications will be screened, and candidates will be selected for an in-person or virtual interview.
Application Deadlines
- Spring (January-April): Sept. 1 – Sept. 15
- Summer (May-August): Feb. 1 – Feb. 15
- Fall (September-December): May 1 – May 15