LIBERTY – Twelve Sullivan 180 Interns have completed a summer work experience with municipalities, volunteer groups and community organizations across Sullivan County. Throughout that time, they were building professional skills and developing new connections to the people and communities around them.

The Sullivan 180 Internship Program provides paid summer employment to Sullivan County youth ages 16 to 20. Interns work alongside municipal staff, volunteers and local leaders on projects that support their communities and Sullivan 180’s mission to build a healthier Sullivan County.

Throughout the summer, Interns cared for public spaces, supported community projects and worked behind the scenes with local organizations. Weekly Leadership Labs brought Interns together for professional development, site visits and discussions focused on leadership, health, prevention, community service and career pathways.

Sophia Zhang, an Intern with the Town of Thompson, said her work went from feeling like routine upkeep to something more personal. “People came up to me, thanking me, and even kids were saying hi and asking questions,” she said. “As time progressed, I felt a sense of community.”

For Aiden Tambascio, an Intern with the Callicoon Business Association and Callicoon Depot Inc., the summer strengthened his connection to the community. “My time as a Sullivan 180 intern also made me fall in love with the town of Callicoon as a whole. The people, the businesses, and without a doubt the train depot,” he shared.

“Over the course of a few weeks, Interns begin to see how much can happen when they show up, take responsibility and work alongside others,” said Anne-Louise Scandariato, Sullivan 180 Director of Community Engagement. “They are learning practical workplace skills. They are also learning more about Sullivan County, building relationships and recognizing that their own effort and perspective can make a difference.”

During the annual Intern Day of Service, Interns and Sullivan 180 staff assembled 400 hygiene kits for distribution through food pantries across Sullivan County. Working in teams, Interns practiced leadership, communication, planning and problem-solving while working toward a shared goal.

The summer concluded with an Intern Celebration recognizing the strengths, effort and perspective each Intern brought to the program. Supervisors were also recognized for the mentorship and encouragement they provided throughout the summer.

For more information about the Sullivan 180 Internship Program or how to get involved in a Sullivan 180 project, contact Anne-Louise Scandariato at 845-295-2405 or Anne-Louise@Sullivan180.org.