Summer Internships train college students in the basics leadership, reconciliation and ministry. During the eight-week program college Interns receive an introduction to living in an urban setting, learn about the historical civil rights struggles, spend time with Dr. Perkins and become leaders for the Summer Arts Camp. It is a powerful summer.

There are male and female intern houses, each located within walking distance of the Perkins Foundation. While living in the house you learn what it means to live in community with each other as well as live in the community with your West Jackson neighbors. Cooking meals, having Bible studies and going through the ups and downs of the summer together is a valuable learning experience for anyone looking to explore what true community is.

Each intern participates in the Perkins Institute. Woven into the schedule of the Summer Arts Camp, interns watch movies, have discussions and take field trips to different civil rights sites around the South. In 2008 the interns traveled to Birmingham and visited the 16th Ave Baptist Church and National Civil Rights Museum.

Along with these workshops the interns have the opportunity to meet with Dr. Perkins. During morning Bible studies and discussions the interns are able to sit with a legend in community development, reconciliation and the civil rights struggles.

Putting what they learn with Dr. Perkins, the interns get to lead the Summer Arts Camp. The interns are on the front line: teaching the arts classes, responding to the needs of the children and serving the community during the weekly “community night.” Our Summer Arts Camp director gives leadership and guidance and the interns are the hands and feet.

It is a powerful summer. If you are interested in Summer Internships please contact Rachel Riesgraf at [email protected]