An Intern's Point of View

We have a few interns leaving us in the upcoming weeks. We’ve asked each to share their experiences, what they have learned and what will stay with them as they move forward.

Katie spent much time working with a Freddie Mac Foundation Wednesday’s Child Coordinator. She is an international studies at a local university.

Interning at the National Adoption Center/ Adoption Center of Delaware Valley has taught me things about domestic adoption and working for a non-profit. First and foremost, what a child needs comes before anything. In most cases what a child needs is a loving caring home. But, it goes beyond that. [While the Center is not ultimately responsible for matching, as we recruit we keep certain things in mind. ed.] The people here try to match the children to the right family. If there is a family that really wants to adopt a child and is qualified, but maybe works odd hours where the only time they’ll see the kid is on the weekends, it is not going to be a good match. These kids need somebody who is going to be around and interact with them on a constant basis.

Children also need fun. This is especially true when it comes to children in foster care; this is what NAC helps to promote in its recruiter sessions. During a Wednesday’s Child taping, I was able to see one kid go go-karting. The teenager enjoyed it so much, and it was a definite pleasure to see him be so elated about the experience.

Working at NAC has definitely been a fun and worthwhile experience. The people who work here are very patient and supportive, which is something you need to be in this line of work. They take the time and tell you step-by-step what needs to be done and how it needs to be done. It is a very efficient way of teaching people.