United Way provides internships this summer for Pasquinelly, others

By Sarah M. Gill of United Way

The buzz at United Way is a little louder this summer and halls and offices, a little fuller thanks to the tremendous volunteer support of college interns and summer programs.   

United Way has once again opened its doors to a number of eager students.  This year’s Toledo-based group comes from Bowling Green State University, Eastern Michigan University, Florida A & M University, Lourdes College, Skidmore College, and The University of Toledo, who are excited about the many opportunities that summer programs and internships provide.

Cleveland resident and University of Toledo senior, Greg Braylock, is happy to be one of this year’s nine United Way interns.  With future plans of either teaching or working in a community agency, like United Way, Braylock said, “This work experience is an excellent opportunity to acquire the skills I need and get to know the community in which I hope to someday work.”

In addition to the benefits highlighted by Braylock, internships, such as those offered at United Way, provide a number of other positive outcomes.  For example, internships offer further depth to classroom learning and the possibility of earning credit hours.  These work experiences build confidence, help student success and retention rates, encourage networking and enhance resumes.  Perhaps most importantly though, students are presented with an inside look at career options which may ultimately aid in the decision of a future career. 

Maumee, Ohio resident and United Way intern, Ann Pasquinelly, is looking forward to her graduation from Lourdes College this December.  Pasquinelly, who is the Founding Member of the Latino Student Union at Lourdes College says, “My goal, while working with United Way is to build relationships with local Latino community leaders and agencies.  By meeting my goal I will be better able to create impact within the Latino community.”     

Bowling Green State University senior Remika Marshall said, “Nothing can fully prepare you for work in a specific career, except actually working in that field.  As a human development and family studies major, my experience working with United Way’s Right From the Start initiative has proven invaluable and rewarding.     Everyday I do my part to help ensure children are receiving the best possible start in life.” 

United Way is able to successfully connect students, such as Remika, with internships that match their educational and professional goals.  This matching is made possible because United Way of Greater Toledo is large enough and diverse enough to offer internships to students of almost any major, but still small enough to create a hands-on experience. 

Interns at United Way are currently involved in a number of special projects, including event marketing, organizational development, and direct service delivery.

United Way has internship opportunities available year-round.  People interested in future internships with United Way of Greater Toledo should contact Jeanette Hrovatich at United Way Volunteer Center by calling 419-244-3063.