Program Information The Parks and Community Services Departments offers sports, special events and safe spaces youth and seniors to participate in programs year-round.
Intern opportunities are located at various locations/programs:
WPAL: The Watsonville Police Activities League (PAL) works with the Watsonville Police Department and the City of Watsonville to provide a youth crime prevention program. PAL relies on educational, athletic, and other recreational activities to cement a bond among police officers, recreation leaders, youth and their parents. PAL is a nonprofit organization that is funded by community sponsors/donations and grant programs. The PAL Program is designed to give youth a chance to better themselves and become a positive influence within their community. The program offers homework assistance, snacks and activities such as arts and crafts, outdoor games, gardening and more.This program serves youth attending middle and high school, grades 6-12.
GHWR Youth Center: The Youth Center offers the PAL program year-round, along with additional classes, special events and field trips. This site features a large gym, outdoor courtyard, teen room, and a classroom. The program offers homework assistance, snacks and activities such as arts and crafts, outdoor games, gardening and more.This program serves youth attending middle and high school, grades 6-12.
Callaghan Kinder Care: Located at Callaghan Park, the Callaghan Kinder Care program is a new program offered in collaboration with the school district where kindergartners attending the afternoon classes are provided breakfast, and participate in activities in the morning before they attend school. Bus transportation then takes the children to their school at the end of each morning.
Camp WOW: Camp WOW is a day camp program for elementary school ages during their school breaks, including spring break, summer vacation, and winter break. Camp WOW (Wild on Watsonville) day camps are designed to give children a fun, active, diverse and safe experience. Our experienced Camp Leaders plan games, art, recreational activities and field trips around weekly themes.
Watsonville Senior Center: The Watsonville Senior Center is the hub for programs and services for community adults ages 50+. We offer a myriad of recreational programs and activities and resources. Through partnerships with local non-profits, a number of resources and services are available on a regular basis.
Sports: The Parks and Community Services Department offers a wide variety of sports programs throughout the year, from ages 3 and up. Internship opportunities include assisting with program coordination, coaching youth teams, and other tasks as needed.
Special Events and Marketing: The Parks and Community Services Department offers various special events throughout the year, including the 4th of July Parade, Strawberry Festival, and Santa Tour, to name a few. Intern opportunities include assisting with marketing, event logistics, and some administrative tasks.
General Description of what students will be doing at this Site: Under direct supervision, interns assist in organizing, planning, directing and implementing a wide range of programs that foster human development, promote health and wellness, provide recreational experiences, and strengthen safety and security through activities, programs, and special events.
On-site: Program organizing/implementation, tutoring, assisting with supervising youth while on site, admin work (filing, data entry, etc.)
Remote: Cold calls, data entry, flyer making, social media
Key Responsibilities:
- Assisting in the planning and delivery of a defined activity and/or program area or service.
- Assisting program activities and participants. Following and giving oral and written directions.
- Maintaining facility and equipment in a clean and orderly manner.
- Maintaining accurate records and preparing reports.
- Observing and enforcing safety regulations to secure the safety of activities, participants and spectators.
- Maintaining order, discipline and good public relations.
Desired Intern Characteristics: Successful interns are positive, enthusiastic and creative individuals who enjoy working with people.
CHHS Major Learning Outcomes (MLOs) that the student will be exposed to:
- Collaboration
- Conflict Resolution, Negotiation, & Mediation
- Cross Cultural Competency
- Leadership
- Personal & Professional Communication
- Professional Development