Our #SummerOfPurpose blog series follows this year’s Cleveland Foundation Summer Interns as they reflect on 11 weeks spent working with Cleveland-area nonprofit and public sector organizations. In today’s blog, we hear from Ellen Babinski, who’s spending her summer at FrontLine Service assisting with Camp Bridges, the organization’s day-long event dedicated to helping children who have suffered the traumatic loss of a family member.

Why did you initially decide to participate in this internship program?

I decided to participate in this internship program after immediately realizing the unique nature of its design. As a young professional and aspiring nonprofit leader, I wanted to do work that I was truly proud of this summer. This program has allowed me to do just that while simultaneously developing my professional skills and expanding my network through sessions with my cohort. I find extreme value in working at a different host site than my peers, offering us the opportunity to share our individual experiences in an empowering community.

What was the most valuable aspect of your internship experience?

The most valuable aspect of my internship experience has been working in a community as exceptional and genuine as FrontLine Service. I am tremendously grateful for my team and supervisor, who has made me feel supported through every project and endeavor. I feel proud of the work I’ve done for a mission statement I wholeheartedly believe in, and my colleagues who have encouraged me along the way are phenomenal mentors and individuals.

What was the most challenging aspect of your internship experience?

Learning how to navigate a full-time job with projects that directly impact people has been the most challenging aspect of my internship. This was my first professional job following years in the service industry, and it was definitely a change getting used to a full 9-5! But the biggest challenge of all was gaining responsibility for projects that have real impact on the individuals FrontLine serves. With support from my team, this energized me to fully immerse myself in the work and learn the operations of a successful nonprofit.

How did this internship helped you grow professionally & personally?

It would be an extreme understatement to say that I have only gained professional experience. The skills I have broadened through working with the Development Department have had a profound impact on my work and knowledge of the public sector. Engaging myself fully in the mission of FrontLine Service has deepened my passions and solidified the values I hold dear in both my professional and personal lives. I could not have asked for a better host site and summer experience.

Where would you take a friend who is visiting Cleveland for the first time?

The first thing I always do with visitors new to Cleveland is take them to see the lake at Edgewater Park or another lookout area. I love the water and seeing how surprised people are who didn’t know there could be so many beaches in Ohio. My number one go-to for food is picking up Cleveland Bagels on the way – they’re the best we have! Then I’d take them downtown to see The West Side Market, Heinen’s, and any of our local studios and galleries to showcase Cleveland’s rich arts and music roots that I love.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying for the Cleveland Foundation Summer Internship Program?

Just be yourself and get ready to learn! There is so much that this program will teach you and it’s vital to come into the interview and experience with an open mind. Unapologetically be your unique self, but be ready to embrace new ideas and diverse advice.

Learn more about spending a #SummerOfPurpose as a Cleveland Foundation intern.