Internship Handbook

A practical guide for affiliates looking to develop a successful internship program and serves as a step-by-step blueprint to engage, mentor, and empower the next generation of professionals. Download the full Internship Handbook.

Download the full Internship Handbook to read more on how to start an Internship Program for your NAMI affiliate, important considerations when reaching out to colleges and universities, as well as how to seamlessly introduce new interns to your team.  

 

If you’re interested in learning more about our Internship Program or need some help getting started, you can reach out to NAMI WLA Intern Coorinator Alan Soto at asoto@namila.org.

Sample Email to College Administrators: Building partnerships with local colleges and universities and marketing your affiliate's value

Dear [University Program Head/Administrator],

 

I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out to introduce an exciting internship opportunity at NAMI Westside Los Angeles (NAMI WLA) that could be of significant benefit to your students in the [Program/Major] department.

 

As a leading mental health organization dedicated to advocacy, education, and support, NAMI WLA offers an internship program specifically designed to provide students with invaluable real-world experience in the mental health field. This program is structured to meet academic requirements while offering students unique opportunities for professional growth.

 

Internship Highlights:

  • Course Credit: The internship is structured to fulfill academic credit requirements for your program, providing students with an academically relevant and enriching experience.
  • Professional Development: Interns work directly with experienced professionals, gaining hands-on experience and developing essential skills in communication, project management, and public speaking.
  • Mentorship: We offer personalized mentorship from professionals in the mental health field, helping students navigate their career paths and enhance their professional development.
  • Community Engagement: Students will have the chance to work within a supportive community of mental health advocates, gaining insights into the non-profit sector and building a network that will serve them in their future careers.

 

We believe that this internship program will not only benefit your students by preparing them for successful careers but also strengthen [University Name]’s commitment to experiential learning and community engagement.

 

We would love to explore how this partnership can be mutually beneficial and discuss the best ways to integrate our program into your students’ academic experience. Please let us know if you are available for a brief meeting to discuss further.

 

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Internship Coordinator

[Name of NAMI Affiliate]

[Contact Information]

 

Hello [name of institution],

 

I am [name], the internship coordinator at NAMI [affiliate name]. One of your colleagues from Community Engagement and Service suggested I reach out to share an exciting internship opportunity for students passionate about mental health or interested in volunteering with non-profit organizations.

 

NAMI WLA is dedicated to providing free mental health support groups, educational resources, and various services to the Los Angeles community. Through our Lanetta Wahlgren Internship Program, we have partnered with UCLA, allowing students to earn class credit. As we plan for our Fall 2024 programming, we are eager to explore similar collaborations to offer these valuable opportunities to your students.

 

Here is more information about us and the internship program:

 

Our Website: [link]

Internship Program: [link to internship website page]

 

Thank you in advance for your time. I look forward to connecting with you.

 

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Internship Coordinator

[Name of NAMI Affiliate]

[Contact Information]