Kim McIver, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of DeKalb County, was recently an Intern Supervisor and enjoyed her experience hosting Jacob, a student from Northern Illinois University.

Q: What is your favorite part about supervising interns?

Kim: Having the opportunity to not only mentor but learn from others who bring a different perspective to our nonprofit.

Q: What advice would you give an organization who is hosting an intern?

Kim: Be patient and give them tasks that create a sense of ownership in your organization. Having an intern, especially one that is just starting their career, allows them the opportunity to adopt your cause as they start to discover who they are. I wish I had been exposed to the nonprofit sector when I was younger, and had been given the chance to explore all the incredible work we do daily! Being a part of a nonprofit is a powerful tool that stays with you for life.

Q: Can you tell us about a time an intern had an impact on your organization?

Kim: Currently we have a wonderful intern with the support of the Roberts Family Foundation who developed an Economic Impact report for our organization over the last three years. I have learned that DeKalb County is extremely proud of this wonderful community and sharing with donors that not only did their donor dollars go to work immediately within the community, but we are sourcing locally means something even more special. This information will strengthen our grants, corporate asks, and enhance our presentations when speaking in the public. I am so grateful for all of his hard work and dedication to our affiliate.

Q: Please share any additional comments you have about your internship experience. 

Kim: Please know that the opportunity to host an intern this semester has been transformational for Habitat for Humanity of DeKalb County. As we look ahead to our 25th Anniversary, we have not been able to expand our staff, so Jacob has filled a role that I could have only dreamed of. He has been a huge asset to us, and has presented at Rotary Club meetings and two Board of Director Meetings. I consider him a huge blessing that has enhanced the work we are doing in the community.

The Internship Program is a collaboration between the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership, the Center for Nonprofit and NGO Studies, and Career Services at Northern Illinois University, supported by the Douglas C. and Lynn M. Roberts Family Foundation.