Internships

Challenge Alaska is a non-profit organization that provides adaptive sports, therapeutic recreation and education for people with disabilities. Each student will have the opportunity to experience everything Challenge Alaska has to offer, but there will be an emphasis in certain areas (see below for different track options). For over 25 years we have provided recreational based programming as well as leisure education in our community. Challenge Alaska works with each individual to help them gain the skills they need to recreate as independently as possible. At Challenge Alaska we believe that everyone, regardless of physical, mental or financial barriers should have the opportunity to experience the beauty and excitement of recreation.

We offer different internships, based on your goals and desired outcomes. Each student will have the opportunity to experience everything Challenge Alaska has to offer, but there will be an emphasis in certain areas.

The Community Track with Hospital Component: The emphasis is to learn and provide Therapeutic Recreation services in both community and hospital settings. This includes community and clinical assessments, preparing treatment plans, implementing treatment plans, charting, discharge plans, community outings, and working within a multi-disciplinary team. Students will also have the opportunity to lead ongoing community programs, work 1:1 with participants, and direct client/patient care both in the community and in the hospital with supervision. Finally, students will be part of the day-to-day operations at Challenge Alaska including staff meeting, program design/planning/implementation, community outreach, and the wide variety of tasks that are part of working at a non-profit organization.

The Community Track with Outdoor Emphasis:

This internship’s main focus will be outdoor based programs such as group camping, multiday backcountry kayak trips, and hiking. Emphasis will be placed on programming, planning, and implementation of programs that take place in the Chugach National Forest and Alaskan wilderness (seasonally) which involves a level of trip leadership and independent work. This internship will also encompass establishing client goals and objectives for treatment/intervention at Challenge Alaska, provide program services for people with physical and developmental disabilities, collaborative program planning, implementation, and evaluation. Finally, students will be part of the day-to-day operations at Challenge Alaska including staff meeting, program design/planning/implementation, community outreach, and the wide variety of tasks that are part of working at a non-profit organization.

Interns will all have the opportunity to participate in Challenge Alaska Special Events, such as the Sadler’s Alaska Challenge hand cycle race (every other summer). In the winter, we offer adaptive skiing through our ski school at Alyeska Resort, located in Girdwood, Alaska.

Click here to download a copy of the Intern Job Description

"Throughout my internship, Challenge Alaska has given me numerous opportunities in order to enhance my growth and development both as a professional and individual. Not only have I developed my skills as a TR professional, but I have also gained many meaningful experiences and have met several unforgettable people. This internship has taught me that being a TR is not just another job, but a service."

Sarah K., Summer 2008 Intern

Supervision:
All students will be under the Direct Supervision of a Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist (CTRS). This will include, and not limited to, weekly supervision meetings, education sessions, and professional development. Challenge Alaska has two Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists on staff, both with different roles and responsibilities. Both will help to provide development and growth for any and all students.

Important Dates:

• We are currently accepting applications for winter/spring 2010 and summer 2010. Applications must be received by the following dates:

• Internship start dates are negotiable, based on school schedules and Challenge Alaska’s schedule.
• A minimum of 14 weeks is required for internship

Benefits:

• Internship meets NCTRS requirements
• Stipend of $125.00 a week.
• Some assistance with food costs
• Leadership and Professional work experience
• If you’re new to Alaska….well, many outdoor opportunities!

All applicants need to complete and send application to Challenge Alaska, along with the requirement listed on the application. Students who meet the requirements will be notified and an interview date will be set. Students selected for an internship will be notified 6 weeks prior to start of their internship. Additionally, the student must provide proof of the following before their start date:

• Current First Aid Certificate
• Current CPR Certificate
• Professional Liability Insurance
• Proof of Hepatitis B Vaccination
• Proof of recent TB test

Please note:

Interns are responsible for locating their own housing and transportation while completing their internship. We can sometimes give you information and direction that can make finding housing easier prior to your arrival. Assistance with transportation can be provided on a limited basis.

Please click here to download a copy of the application, complete the form, and mail to:

Challenge Alaska

Intern Coordinator

3350 Commercial Dr. Suite 208

Anchorage, AK 99501

If you have any questions, please contact:

Jeff Dick CTRS
Therapeutic Recreation Coordinator
(907) 344-7270