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The public services field has long been understaffed, with demand for services outpacing the ability of organizations like FCR to hire quality care providers. Unfortunately, this problem was only exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and rising inflation. The demand for care created high rates of staff burnout and students were reluctant to apply for unpaid internships because they could not afford to forfeit income from other jobs in exchange for experience.
By creating a paid internship program, FCR is hoping to overcome these challenges and create a pipeline from colleges to the public services sector. FCR works with several area colleges and universities, such as Stonehill College, Bridgewater State University, and UMass Boston to recruit diverse interns to work in all our departments. FCR is also looking to expand the internship program by hiring law students to help our clients understand their rights and stand by them as they navigate the trappings of the court system. By showing students the wide array of opportunities available to them in the field, regardless of their major or academic background, we hope they will join us after graduation to continue all their incredible work.
FCR currently has several interns working in departments including FBS Visitation, Domestic Violence Advocacy, and Mental Health Services. Here are a few testimonials about how their time with FCR has impacted them and the organization:
“I have really enjoyed my internship experience at FCR in Visitation, and I look forward to continuing it next semester. I feel like I have been able to grow and learn about the field of social services over the course of my time here!” – Sydney Farrell, FBS Visitation Program Intern
"I love working with FCR as it gives me the opportunity to explore my field of study with true client interaction and observe the day-to-day functionality of a domestic violence agency. I have learned a tremendous amount about my own interests as everyone here is always open and willing to help answer any questions I have" - Adam Ammirata, Mental Health Services Intern
“My experience with FCR has been nothing but absolutely amazing! Through my supervisor and other colleagues, I have been able to further my education on Domestic Violence and provide advocacy to clients confidently. I am so inspired by FCR and their mission, I am proud to announce I have been accepted into Bridgewater State University's Masters of Social Work advanced standing program. I look forward to furthering my knowledge of the human services field, and am forever grateful to have become part of FCR's community” – Shannon McGinley, Domestic Violence Advocate Intern
“The internship program has been a huge asset to the Domestic Violence Survivors program. Interns have helped create virtual support groups, outreach material for education and awareness, and help with the day-to-day function of the program. They are eager to learn and grow in their profession.” – Heather Sullivan, Director of Domestic Violence Services and the Healthy Relationships Program
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