Internship - Direct Support

Internship at The Price Center  

Are you a passionate and caring person looking for an opportunity to make a difference in others' lives? This is the internship for you!

About The Price Center:  

Empowering, encouraging, and caring for individuals with special gifts, needs, and abilities for more than 40 years, the Price Center of Newton, MA is a life-changing service agency that offers a range of extraordinary programs.

The Price Center’s programs serve many people across a range of abilities and reflect our commitment to maximize each individual’s self-confidence and self-advocacy along with their physical, emotional, and intellectual capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:  

• Assisting staff in providing direct support for individuals enrolled in day programs
• Helping individuals engage in community outings
• Planning and leading fun, structured activities like arts & crafts, music, etc.
• Observing and participating in therapeutic activities and exercises
• Providing emotional support to individuals
• Promote independence, dignity, and inclusion in everything you do
• Work closely with team to ensure consistent, high-quality care and support
• Follow program guidelines, safety protocols, and participate in trainings and team meetings
• Documenting interactions and interventions accurately and confidentially

Requirements:  

• Strong communication and teamwork skills   
• Available for shifts beginning at 7:30am
• Currently enrolled in a training program or college

• Ability to write clearly  
• Basic computer skills 

Qualifications:

• No experience required - just a strong interest in Human Services
• Compassion, patience, and a willingness to learn
• Must pass CORI, SORI, DPPC and OIG background checks; must submit fingerprints for DDS Fingerprint Background check

The deadline for application to internships are as follows:

Spring Internships: The first Monday in January

Summer Internships: The first Monday in May

Fall Internships: The first Monday in August

• Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) background check and fingerprinting must be arranged and completed before the internship start date.
• Internship Agreements and Learning Contracts between the school and the Price Center must be completed before the start of the internship.
• Mid-term and final evaluation requests must be arranged two weeks.  

The Price Center provides internship opportunities for dedicated students pursuing degrees in a range of majors.  Opportunities are available for students looking to satisfy curriculum and also for students looking for experience in Human Services.

The following are potential internship assignments:

• Community Based Day Program

Our Community Based Day Program offers a range of activities which promote two areas: health and wellness and employment. Both areas engage participants in community activities and also teach them to advocate for themselves.

Those focused on getting a job spend part of their day with Employment Services staff working on training and preparing for interviews. Training takes place in a simulated office environment where they learn scanning, electronic filing, and other computer skills. When individuals are not at their paid jobs, they also attend Community Based Day with their friends and continue to learn.

• Specialized Support Program

Specialized Supports serves individuals who need assistance with communication, behavior, and social skills. Many individuals in this program have autism and need extra help with verbal communication. Staffing ratios typically are one staff to three participants so each can benefit from personalized attention.

Why Join Us?  

• Impactful Work: Make a real difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  
• Supportive Team: Be part of a passionate and collaborative team that values your contributions.  
• Professional Growth: Enjoy opportunities for ongoing training and career development.  
• Rewarding Environment: Experience the fulfillment of helping others achieve their fullest potential.  

Ready to join us? Apply now and start your rewarding career with The Price Center!