Internship Program

Empowering communities through service and learning

Open to students and community members residing in Hawaiʻi.

Welcome to Our Kūpuna's Internship Program

Join us in our mission to support the low-income, homebound elderly while gaining invaluable experience in community health, social work, and more.

Our program is not just an internship; it's a pathway to becoming a leader in client-centered service.

84

Student Interns

Since 2020, we've trained over 84 student interns, equipping them with skills in case management, public health, and client service.

- 27 were part of the UH-KCC CHW training program
- 14 were UH students
- 6 were HPU students
- 1 was a Chaminade University student
- Outside of the traditional university training programs
Over the past 3.75 (almost 4) years!

Of those 84 interns…

Our unique approach includes tailored learning plans, hands-on projects, and frequent mentoring for a comprehensive educational experience.

120

Total Hours*

Each intern follows a training period guided by experienced staff. Once they successfully complete the training period, they go through more complex tasks and projects.

*Total hours may differ depending on the program/internship cohort

What You’ll Do

Dive into tasks ranging from client interaction and data management to grant writing and community outreach.

The Benefits

Be part of a supportive team, contributing to program design and resource research, all while gaining credits and professional experience. Opportunities for employment post-internship.

Hawaiʻi-Based: Interns must reside on one of the Hawaiian Islands. While much of the work can be done remotely, some opportunities may involve in-person activities in their local community.

Intern Statements

Raven Parado

I am so grateful for the fulfilling and enriching experience I had during my internship with Our Kūpuna!
Through my internship, I was able to create an oral health program that increased the community's awareness of oral cancer and provided prevention education to Hawaii's kūpuna.
The supportive environment fostered my professional growth, and the mentorship I received significantly contributed to my development in the field of public health.
Jess Clabo

My experience with Our Kūpuna allowed me to connect immediately and directly through the internet and telephone to be of service to members of my community.
The entire internship process was streamlined, professional, welcoming and involved accountability.
Witnessing the circle of connection, by hearing the kūpuna discuss the positive impacts of the program to their daily lives, and seeing the need by shopping and delivering to a home, really made the experience with Our Kupuna invaluable.
Yuko Zukeran

My internship at Our Kupuna was a great experience for me to work with a great team that is close to seniors and helps them improve their quality of life.
I love this team and have learned that even though we may be working at different locations, we are united in helping to achieve common goals.
Magnolia Basoc

Our Kupuna was very generous in finding different opportunities for me to grow my current skill set and explore my interests. I’ve always felt welcomed and appreciated for my contributions.
Melanie Akiu-Nuno

Interning with Our Kūpuna while completing my undergraduate degree in Public Health at UH Manoa was instrumental in deepening my understanding of the significance and dedication required for community service. Working closely with a community directly affected by the challenges of COVID-19 helped me understand the vital role and profound impact of community engagement.