Inner City Youth Baseball/Softball- YMCA Program
Angela
Experience Information
Employer: David D. Hunting YMCA
Job Title: Sports Program Intern
Major: Sport Management
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: No
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
The David D. Hunting YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the West Michigan community. They focus on developing the potential of kids, improving individual health and well-being, and giving back and supporting our neighbors.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
As I mentioned above, the YMCA focuses on strengthening the West Michigan Community by giving back and supporting our neighbors. A way I was able to do that this summer, was by helping the Y coordinate and put on their Inner City Youth Baseball/Softball program. This program was absolutely free with the help of our sponsors, Meijer, Fifth-Third Bank, and the Whitecaps organization. The program allowed kids, grades 1st-8th to participate in a free summer baseball/softball league where they were provided with uniforms, nightly dinners, coaches, and a summer full of memories.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
This summer, I learned firsthand, how a nonprofit organization runs; which is what made me choose this internship to begin with. I was able to watch this league get carried out from truly the start to the finish. I was also able to see how a true sports department is ran, outside of the this league as well as I was involved with teaching weekly youth classes, and helping run the men's adult basketball league too. I gained more hands on experience in leadership, coordinating programs, and time management. I couldn't have asked for a better summer internship experience!
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of my internship was by far working with the children. Whether it was in my weekly youth classes at the Y, or out on the field at Plaster Creek Family Park, where I was assigned Field Manager during the baseball/softball league. All the children I get to know this summer made such a wonderful impact on me.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
Before I took the internship, I thought I'd gain great experience to put on a resume, but I never thought this summer would alter my career path. Boy, was I wrong! This summer, has made me want to get into the Community Relations side of sports, and continue to work with organizations such a the Y, and give back to children and communities in various areas.