Serving the Community and Training Students: Challenges and Lessons from a University-Sponsored Human Service Agency

Abstract

This paper describes the process of developing and sustaining a human service agency sponsored by Widener University aimed at providing enriched internship opportunities for students in University-based professional programs while at the same time addressing the pressing needs of under-resourced communities. Student learning outcomes, challenges and lessons learned are discussed. The findings may be useful in establishing professional internship programs that fully engage students in addressing the needs of local distressed communities.