At Raintree Habitat for Humanity (Raintree HFH), Executive Director Gene Sewell is full of gratitude for the support provided by the Henry County Community Foundation’s Internship Grant Program. Over the past two summers, interns funded by this program have become an essential part of the organization’s success, with Sewell describing their impact as “truly phenomenal.”
“Our interns have been a game changer,” says Gene. “They’ve handled a variety of tasks, including developing our newsletter, updating our mailing list, researching grant opportunities, and so much more. Their work has allowed others within the Raintree HFH organization time to concentrate on other aspects of the ministry and mission.”
For nonprofit organizations like Raintree HFH, having access to passionate, capable interns through the Foundation’s grant program is invaluable. Beyond the practical help, the fresh perspectives and energy that these students bring have fueled the organization’s growth.
Gene is eager to see more nonprofits in the community benefit from this initiative, encouraging them to participate. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to support your organization’s goals while giving students experience.” He adds, “As the Executive Director who tends to wear many hats throughout each day, as so many of our other local non-profit organization leaders do, I would like to say to those other leaders that taking advantage of the HCCF intern opportunity would have a sizeable and enduring impact on their organization!”
Cori Allen, a dedicated student intern, is one example of how this program creates a lasting impact. Inspired by her sister’s positive experience, Cori applied for an intern position at Habitat. From there, Gene applied for the nonprofit internship grant program. After approval from a committee of volunteers with the Foundation, Habitat received the funding to support Cori in this role, where she discovered how her passion for service could directly benefit her community.
“Service is something that I value deeply,” says Cori. “Through this internship, I had the chance to give back to my community in a meaningful way.”
Under Cori’s leadership, Raintree HFH hosted its first-ever Annual Fundraising Gala, raising over $6,500. These funds will help build two new homes for families in need within Henry County—a lasting legacy from a single summer of hard work. “It was incredibly rewarding to see the difference I could make,” she reflects. “I encourage other students to take part in the Internship Grant Program. It’s a great way to make a positive impact while gaining experience.”
This program is more than just a learning opportunity for students like Cori; it’s a resource for local nonprofits. By empowering young leaders, this program is helping to strengthen organizations that play a crucial role in building a better future for the entire community. The ripple effect of this program—benefiting both interns and nonprofits—shows the true power of investing in your community.
The Internship Grant Program is supported through the Choose Henry Flex Fund. By pooling donations together, this fund is used to make a difference in the community with regular grant cycles and initiatives. The Internship Grant Program began two years ago as an avenue to build up local nonprofits and provide them with opportunities for new experiences and development. Donors can be a part of this great program by giving to the Choose Henry Flex Fund. When you give to Choose Henry, you help create opportunities like this in Henry County!