Summer - Recreation Intern

CHAMPAIGN PARK DISTRICT•Champaign, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Gain hands-on experience in the dynamic world of parks and recreation! The Recreation Intern supports the daily operations of the Champaign Park District while rotating through multiple departments to build a strong foundation in recreation management. During the final portion of the internship, you’ll focus on a specialized area of interest and complete a capstone project that aligns with your academic and professional goals. This is a great opportunity to apply classroom learning in a real-world setting, make a meaningful impact in the community, and grow as a recreation professional.

Requirements

Must be currently enrolled in a college or university, pursuing a degree in Recreation, Sports, Tourism, Leisure Studies, or a closely related field
Must be completing the internship for academic credit or as a program requirement for graduation
Must be available to work up to 40 hours per week for 10 to 12 weeks, with flexibility for occasional evenings or weekends
Must have reliable transportation to and from various Park District sites
Must possess a valid driver’s license (if required to travel between sites)
Must be able to pass a background check and comply with all Champaign Park District employment policies
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) or the ability to learn required software
Must demonstrate basic customer service and communication skills, including the ability to interact professionally with the public and staff

Responsibilities

Assist in planning, coordinating, and delivering programs and events across various Park District departments.
Participate in meetings, trainings, and planning sessions to gain operational insight.
Conduct research, gather feedback, and evaluate program effectiveness.
Support the development of marketing and outreach materials.
Collaborate on department-specific projects that match your academic focus.
Engage with patrons to enhance customer service and community engagement.
Complete and present a final capstone project demonstrating your learning outcomes.
Follow all safety and confidentiality policies while maintaining professionalism.