In what ways can a small non-profit safely and effectively utilize interns to provide services, while making their educational experience meaningful

Deaconess Children’s Services believes it is on its way to answering this challening question and is pleased to announce the addition of five interns this September! These women bring their enthusiasm, knowledge and passion to serve Deaconess children and their families. Interns are an important and valuable part of our staff as they fill a variety of positions from administration to direct client service.

We welcome these interns and thank them for choosing Deaconess as their internship site:
• Katja Kupari joins us from Western Washington University’s Human Services program. Katja will be co-facilitating our Thursday night Incredible Years and Monday night Latinos Unidos Child Development programs. Passionate about working with children of all ages, Katja is planning activities that will build children’s self-esteem and confidence, along with having fun!
• Rachel Mahoney is a Family Support Services major from Edmonds Community College. Rachel is sharing her talents with us in two programs: our All Wrapped Up Christmas gift-giving program, our teen parent group at Scriber Lake High School, and our Wednesday night Child Development programs. This busy woman is not only able to multi-task but also shares her passion for working with all ages of Deaconess clients – from infants to adults – as well as our donors!
• Tonani Reinheimer completed two degrees from Central Washington University: Interdisciplinary Studies and Law and Justice. Tonani’s enthusiasm is as contagious as her smile! Her internship centers around building a Mentorship Program for our Teen Parent Advocacy program. She enjoys meeting and working with our teen parents and looks forward to supporting them and building relationships during her internship.
• Peggy McMiller graduated with her Associate’s Degree in Business Technology from Everett Community College and is excited to hone her office skills and expertise working along side our Operations Manager. Peggy is eager to get to know non-profit administration since her passion is assisting people. Her warmth and caring nature can be felt as soon as you walk into the Deaconess office!
• Shirley Barker is completing her Master’s Degree in Applied Behavioral Science through the Leadership Institute of Seattle (LIOS). Deaconess is the subject of her leadership project in which she will be exploring different facets of our organization, interviewing staff, Board members and volunteers, recognizing our strengths and making recommendations for changes. Her interest is in helping organizations develop and maintain the most effective leadership.