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Youth Program Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Youth Engagement Intern

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Youth Outreach Intern Shift: 10 hours per week Who We Are Looking For: We are seeking a creative ... Support NAMI Chicago's youth programs by attending program sessions and co-facilitating learning

Youth Engagement Intern

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Youth Outreach Intern Shift: 10 hours per week Who We Are Looking For: We are seeking a creative ... Support NAMI Chicago's youth programs by attending program sessions and co-facilitating learning

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Youth Program Intern information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do youth program intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for youth program intern in Chicago, IL is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a youth program intern do?

A Youth Program Intern assists with the planning, organization, and execution of activities and programs aimed at engaging and supporting young people. Their responsibilities often include helping with event coordination, mentoring youth participants, preparing materials, and providing administrative support. They may also help with outreach, program evaluation, and fostering a safe, inclusive environment. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in youth development and nonprofit or community work.

What types of projects or responsibilities can a youth program intern expect to handle during their internship?

As a Youth Program Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on projects, such as planning and facilitating activities, assisting with curriculum development, and supporting program evaluation efforts. Interns often work closely with program coordinators and youth participants, helping to create a safe and engaging environment. You may also contribute to administrative tasks, outreach efforts, and community events, gaining valuable insight into program operations. This role provides excellent opportunities to develop leadership, communication, and organizational skills while making a positive impact on young people.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a youth program intern, and why are they important?

To excel as a Youth Program Intern, you typically need experience or coursework in youth development, education, or social work, often supported by enrollment in a related degree program. Familiarity with program management tools, basic Microsoft Office applications, and child safety protocols is often expected. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and the ability to communicate and build rapport with diverse youth populations help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure you can effectively support program activities, foster positive youth engagement, and contribute to a safe and inclusive environment.

What is the difference between Youth Program Intern vs Youth Counselor?

AspectYouth Program InternYouth Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or college coursework; some positions may prefer related courseworkHigh school diploma; some roles require certifications in counseling or youth development
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often temporary, assisting with program activitiesDirect interaction with youth, providing guidance and support in community or school settings
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, community centers, summer programsSchools, community agencies, youth centers

While both roles involve working with youth, a Youth Program Intern typically assists with program operations and gains experience, whereas a Youth Counselor provides direct support and guidance to youth, often requiring more specialized training or certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Youth Program jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Youth Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Youth Program Intern jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Youth Program Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Youth Program Intern job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,504 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Youth Engagement Intern

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

NAMI Chicago
Non-Profitsย โ€ขย 11 - 50 employees

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Internship

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description:

Type: Internship (unpaid) 

Reports to: Engagement Manager 

Office Location: 224 W Hill St Suite 410, Chicago, IL 

Title: Youth Outreach Intern 

Shift: 10 hours per week   
 

Who We Are Looking For:
We are seeking a creative and detail-oriented Youth Engagement Intern to support NAMI Chicago’s community engagement efforts. This role is ideal for a bilingual (English/Spanish) graduate student passionate about mental health and youth programming. Under the guidance of our Senior Education and Engagement Specialist, you will learn about NAMI Chicago’s youth initiatives and be engaged in the co-facilitation of various programming, support the development of our youth asset materials and aid in other efforts to advance our impact on the health and wellness of youth and their families in Chicago and the Cook County suburbs.  


Essential Functions & Responsibilities: 

  • Conduct research on the latest youth mental health concerns to inform the development of relevant culturally responsible and community-centered content.  
  • Work closely with Senior education and engagement specialist to conduct listening sessions with CBOs who have youth advisory boards and collecting data to inform NAMI’s YAB 
  • Revise and improve youth-oriented educational and training material 
  • Support NAMI Chicago’s youth programs by attending program sessions and co-facilitating learning 
  • Cultivate and strengthen partnerships with youth-serving organizations and providers on the South and West Side of the city. 
  • Assist with program evaluation efforts, including the development and administering of pre- and post-event surveys 
  • As needed, document the landscape of youth mental health needs, existing resources, and service gaps 
  • Complete administrative tasks related to youth programming, as assigned 
  • Assist with NAMI Chicago’s community engagement events and outreach efforts  
  • Attend weekly engagement team meeting
Requirements:

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

  • Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish 
  • Experience in community organizing, event planning and execution, and school partnerships 
  • A strong knowledge of current trends among youth 
  • Familiarity with Chicago neighborhoods and communities, especially on the south and west sides 
  • A background in non-profit or mental health/wellness organizations is a plus  
  • Commitment to diversity and equity  

Qualifications and Requirements: 

  • Currently pursuing a graduate degree in psychology, social work, public health, education, or a related field; we may also consider exceptional fourth-year undergraduate students  
  • Fluent in English and Spanish (both verbal and written) 
  • Attention to detail  
  • Strong organizational, reliability and time management skills 
  • Highly passionate about transforming the landscape of mental health and wellbeing in youth populations 
  • Highly collaborative and eager to learn  
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills 
  • Some evening or weekend availability may be required for events, with advanced notice