Summer interns will assist with, lead, and learn about Candlelight Ranch’s educational and therapeutic nature-based programming. Interns will have the opportunity to interact with children and families of all abilities and needs. In collaboration with the Program Director and Program Coordinator, interns will learn how to facilitate educational, recreational and therapeutic group programs. Interns will have the opportunity to learn about program development, implementation, and evaluation methods. All interns will receive a 2-day zipline training, 4-day program training, and additional ongoing training as needed.
As part of your internship, interns will learn, participate and facilitate the following programs and activities with appropriate training and supervision:
- Challenge Course (Low & High Ropes)– Candlelight Ranch has 3 zip lines, high ropes course and a canyon traverse. Our interns will assist with & lead group facilitation, including processing the Challenge Course experience. All interns are encouraged to become belay certified – we can provide you with local resources to complete this certification.
- Equine Program – Candlelight Ranch provides hands-on learning opportunities to our clients utilizing Equine Assisted Learning and team building through EAGALA.
- Archery– CLR provides the opportunity for campers to learn a new skill set during our entry level archery program, interested interns may receive additional training in order to teach/ assist with the program.
- Nature Hikes – Utilizing our hiking trails, campers are able to explore the natural wonders of our property and learn about edible and medicinal plants of Central Texas.
- Nature Art– Candlelight Ranch customizes art projects that incorporate the natural environment.
- Nature Therapy and Education – Candlelight Ranch provides opportunities for groups to explore nature and learn about the positive effects that a natural environment can have on mental and physical health.
Who We Serve
Candlelight Ranch provides camp opportunities to our local community, Independent School Districts, team building retreats and nonprofit groups that fall within our mission of serving underserved youth and families, children/teens in foster care, individuals with special needs, refugees, and military families. These events include quarterly Family Days, monthly Military Family Days, Camp Dreamcatcher, Volunteer Thank You Events and Fundraisers. Interns will have the opportunity to assist with the planning and implementation of all special events that fall within the time of their internship.
Internship Requirements
Interns will need to be available for a minimum of 4 days a week from 8:30AM–4:30PM during June 1-August1. Interns will be required to complete a 4-day training from May 26 – May 29. There is a week break from camp during the Fourth of July week. This internship may require some weekends. Interns will need to have their own transportation to and from Candlelight Ranch. Interns will spend most of their time outdoors and will be engaging in physically demanding activities.
Interns need to be willing to work outdoors in the heat, have a positive and flexible attitude, and have a desire to work with youth and families of all abilities and backgrounds. It is suggested but not required that Interns be enrolled in college or a Master’s level program and be working toward their degree in Recreation Administration, Therapeutic Recreation, Social Work, Psychology, Education, Agriculture, Biology, Environmental Studies, Exercise & Sports Science or another human or environmental services related field.