INTERNSHIPS AND WORKFORCE
Internships and workforce development programs are essential stepping stones for young people as they transition from the classroom into their careers. For students, these experiences provide a first real taste of the workplace, helping them connect what they’ve learned in school to real-world opportunities. For young adults, workforce programs open doors to meaningful employment, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and support they need to build stability and independence. Together, these programs not only prepare participants for long-term success but also strengthen the local workforce by cultivating the next generation of skilled, engaged, and civically minded professionals.
STUDENT INTERNSHIPS
A cornerstone of DCLI’s approach is preparing students not just for careers, but for real life. To bridge the gap between the classroom and the workforce, the Institute provides meaningful internship opportunities that combine professional training with financial education.
Students participate in an eight-week paid internship related to their chosen field, gaining meaningful hands-on experience and exposure to the real-world workforce. Internships are funded by the Institute and offered through carefully selected community partners committed to providing substantive training and responsibilities. Students also take part in financial literacy and personal development workshops. For many participants, this is their first substantial paycheck, making budgeting, saving, and understanding long-term financial habits an essential component of the program.
This summer internship program for high school students requires an eight-week commitment, with interns working 25 to 35 hours per week. In addition to their worksite responsibilities, students must attend weekly professional development and financial literacy sessions. The program’s goal is to provide valuable work experience, help students build transferable skills, compensate them fairly for their time, and ensure they learn by actively contributing to an organization.
Participating organizations and businesses:
Central Illinois Media Group, Children's Museum of Illinois, City of Decatur, Crossing Healthcare, Decatur Fire Department, Decatur Memorial Hospital, Decatur Park District, Decatur Police Department, Decatur Public School District #61, Heart of Illinois Community Foundation, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospitals, Macon County Conservation District, Macon County Sheriff’s Office, Millikin University, Northeast Community Fund, Rotalby’s Nursing Institute, state and local lawmakers, United Way of Decatur & Mid Illinois, Workforce Investment Solutions
If your business would like to learn more about becoming a DCLI Community Partner, contact us.
WORKFORCE EXPERIENCES
DCLI partners with Workforce Investment Solutions to expand the summer internship program as well as extend employment opportunities beyond the summer to a select group who qualify. The program provides young adults ages 18–24—including those facing significant barriers to employment—with paid work experience and career training. The program is designed to help participants access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market, while also helping employers hire and retain skilled workers.
Through on-the-job training with local employers, combined with mentorship and career readiness support—including goal setting, financial literacy, and professional development—participants gain real-world experience, build self-awareness and employee aptitude, prepare for high-quality jobs, and long-term career success. By connecting young adults to meaningful work and practical guidance, the program empowers them to launch careers, develop confidence, and contribute to the local economy as skilled, engaged professionals.
