Brian Joanis is a junior at NIU with a major in Nonprofit and NGO Studies and a minor in History.

This summer, Brian participated in the Internship Program and was paired with Fox Valley Older Adult Services. The following is what Brian had to say about his internship experience:

Q: What projects are you working on as an intern?

Brian: As an intern I have:

• Input client email information on FVOAS website to receive digital newsletters
• Updated donor information for upcoming newsletters
• Validated prior volunteer information for upcoming events
• Prepared Aide profiles for annual audit
• Conducted grant research
• Assisted the adult daycare program
• Upgraded the GuideStar status for organization
• Handled minor outdoor landscaping for building appearance

Q: What is the best part of your internship?

Brian: Being surrounded by an elite staff of passionate and like minded individuals everyday drives me to join the fight for social justice. I see the hard work and long hours put in transfer to the smiling faces of senior beneficiaries every day I come to the center. Everyone has offered me a chance to become a part of their movement towards a better future for the organization and their programs. There is no sense of uncomfortability at FVOAS, and they understand the importance of providing the student generation with practical and real nonprofit experience.

Q: In your opinion, why should students pursue internship opportunities?

Brian: This is how you meet the people on the front lines who have dedicated their lives to a passion they believe in. There is no better way to get a crash course in real job training, than to put yourself in an unfamiliar situation and test your abilities to the fullest extent.

Q: Please share any additional comments you would like to share about your internship experience. 

Brian: To the funders, thank you so much for supporting the Internship Program. I am proud to represent the university and the Center for Nonprofit and NGO Studies by joining the ranks of local nonprofits, and this would not be possible without your shared vision. This internship will become a cornerstone for the advancement of a new generation who are willing to dedicate their lives for a cause they believe in. It is a blessing and a privilege to be a part of this internship, and something I will always remember. Thank you.