Spurwink is extremely grateful to the Abbagadassett Foundation for its grant in support of our Next Gen Nonprofit Leadership Internship Program, a program that is shaping the future of Maine’s nonprofit sector and empowering the leaders of tomorrow.
Launching Opportunity
Thanks to the Abbagadassett Foundation, Spurwink launched the Next Gen Nonprofit Leadership Internship Program in 2024. Since then, three successful cohorts have completed the program, providing paid, hands-on experience to 20 talented college students, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college. The Foundation’s funding has made these internships accessible to students who otherwise could not afford to participate, opening doors to meaningful careers in behavioral health and nonprofit management.
Building Skills
Interns are placed across Spurwink’s administrative departments, including Advancement, Finance, Human Resources, IT, and Outpatient and Community Services, where they are mentored by experienced professionals. Each intern benefits from both a primary and secondary supervisor, weekly check-ins, and a strong professional development curriculum. Weekly cohort days bring interns together for learning, networking, and site visits to Spurwink’s behavioral health programs, deepening their understanding of the organization’s mission and impact.
The program’s capstone is a celebratory poster presentation, where interns share their projects and growth with Spurwink staff, families, and community partners.
Results and Experiences
The program’s success is evident: several interns have already returned to Spurwink for employment in full-time and part-time roles. Interns consistently report that the experience built their confidence, professional skills, and sense of belonging.
As one intern shared:
“Spurwink blew me away with its drive to create a kind and innovative working environment for new incoming interns. … I was greeted with open arms, smiles, and positive energy.”
Another wrote: “I am so grateful for Spurwink, for its employees, and its dedication to helping people in the most amazing ways. I could not have asked for a better experience for my first internship, and I will never forget the lessons I learned during this experience.”
Looking Ahead
The Abbagadassett Foundation’s investment is more than a grant—it’s a commitment to Maine’s future nonprofit leaders and the communities they will serve. Spurwink is deeply grateful for this partnership and excited to continue building a pipeline of talented, passionate professionals.
