Learn, grow, and thrive with the Y.
At the YMCA of the Rockies, we believe we have something special—a sense of community—and that everyone should have access to it, along with the programs and services that make a positive impact. As part of our mission, the YMCA of the Rockies offers International Internship and Training opportunities these are a practical “on-the-job” training in an American business for overseas university students and young professionals, in their field of study.
These opportunities vary at each of the YMCA of the Rockies two locations. Explore what options are available to you and learn more about our selection process for this program.
Program Eligibility
We’re excited that you are considering YMCA of the Rockies as your next step in your career path! Our International Trainee and Internship programs are open to all persons who meet the eligibility requirements. Participants will receive on-the-job training in all facets of their selected area of interest and qualification. Additional training may be provided in supervisory skills, customer service skills and English language skills. Placement depends upon qualifications of the applicant and departmental needs. The program bridges the participant’s course of study to their career development objectives. While participants gain practical knowledge in their specialized fields, the American staff gains international cultural and business awareness. The participants not only gain valuable insight into American business methods and practices, they immerse themselves into American society and culture.
Trainee Requirements
A trainee must be a foreign national who has graduated from a degree-granting university and has one year of experience outside the United States OR has five years of experience in his/her occupational field outside of the United States. An applicant’s education and experience must directly relate to the training for which they are applying. Trainee programs are for 12 months. Sometimes there is a possibility to extend to 18 months.
Internship Requirements
An intern must be a foreign national who is currently enrolled in a post-secondary academic institution outside of the United States OR has graduated within 12 months prior to his/her program begin date. An applicant’s education and experience must directly relate to the Internship for which they are applying.
APPLICATION TIMELINE:
Applications for the Intern/Trainee Program open on October 1st with a deadline of February 15. The recruiting process will be on a first come first serve basis. Positions might close before the deadline if they have been filled.
Opportunities for International Internship & Trainee Programs
Human Resources - Staff Experience
Snow Mountain Ranch
Human Resources - Office Assistant
Snow Mountain Ranch
Recreational & Programs Operations
Snow Mountain Ranch
Information Technology
Snow Mountain Ranch
Guest Services - Front Desk
Snow Mountain Ranch
Guest Services - Conference focus
Snow Mountain Ranch
Human Resources - Office Associate
Estes Park Center
Food Service Operations
Estes Park Center
Recreation and Programs Operations
Estes Park Center
Information Technology
Estes Park Center
Guest Services - Front Desk
Estes Park Center
Guest Services - Conference Focus
Estes Park CenterAdditional Information on the International Programs
Do I get paid to participate in the International program?
Yes! Our participants will be paid Colorado minimum wage. Participants will also receive their share of the Appreciation Fund (tips) given by our guests.
Once I start the program, how will I be evaluated?
Trainees and interns will be evaluated throughout the course of
the program. Those who successfully complete
the program will receive a Certificate of Completion issued by the YMCA of the Rockies and a
Letter
of Recommendation to prospective employers.
What is the educational component of the program?
The participant will receive classes during the Fall, Winter and Spring seasons as part of their
training program. The classes will cover a variety of topics. The leadership of the YMCA of the
Rockies will hold classes on the operations of a hospitality business, the financial processes
of a non-profit, how both Estes Park Center and Snow Mountain Ranch operate, basic notions on
philanthropy and the importance of donations for the YMCA of the Rockies. There will also be
speakers talking about professional skills necessary in the participant’s future career such as
Conflict Management, Diversity, Marketing, Public Speaking, Creating and Using High Performing
Teams and Maintaining Healthy Relationships in the Workplace (topics are subject to change). The
participant will also learn about personal skills that are key in becoming independent such as
how-to Budget, Resume Writing and Interview Skills. The participant will have to do 2
presentations, one in a local school about their home country and culture, and one in front of
YMCA of the Rockies supervisors and coworkers about the YMCA in their home country.
Do I get time off?
Absolutely! We want you to explore the beautiful surroundings and
take advantage of the Y’s amenities
and staff discounts at various local attractions. We believe in building healthy spirit, mind
and
body for all.
Do I have to pay for meals?
Yes, you do need to pay for meals. You will receive a Room and Board agreement as part of your hiring process with detailed information for you to review.
Who do I contact for more information or with questions?
Please contact us at amoulden@ymcarockies.org for more information or if you have any questions.
How long before my J1 program starts can I arrive in the YMCA of the
Rockies?
You can arrive up to 2 days before the start date of your work agreement.
Where is the nearest airport?
The nearest airport to our location is Denver
International Airport.
Do I get picked up from the airport?
Participants MUST send their arrival information to Amanda at amoulden@ymcarockies.org at least two weeks in
advance of arrival. We will then schedule your shuttle depending on which location you are
traveling to. Participants should not arrive more than three days before their DS-2019 start
date, as their room may not yet be vacant or prepared.
What to pack?
As you get ready to start packing your bags to travel to beautiful Colorado, there are a few
things to keep in mind. Below is a list of suggested items to pack for your experience at the Y.
But remember to pack lightly; dorm rooms are small and you may have up to three (3) roommates.
Clothing: Temperatures in the mountains change very fast. Please make sure to pack WARM CLOTHES!
Clothing: Temperatures in the mountains change very fast. Please make sure to pack WARM CLOTHES!
- All Seasons: black pants/blue jeans, sweatshirts/sweaters, jacket or parka, t-shirts, swimsuit, as well as some nice clothes for special occasions.
- Winter Season (September—May): heavy coat, scarf, gloves, boots, and hat for cold weather and snow.
- Rain Gear: no umbrellas due to lightning
- Good walking shoes and/or hiking boots
- Alarm Clock
- Shower Sandals
- Container to carry personal items to shower room
- Musical instrument if you play one
- Sporting gear appropriate to the season
- Camera
- Adapters for electronics: American outlets are different from other countries, and there are no adapters sold near our facility.
- Cultural Items: Bring items that represent your home country for cultural events
Is there public transportation in the area?
The YMCA of the Rockies is located in a rural area in the Mountains, there is no public
transportation in the area.
What are the dates for the Intern/Training Program?
The Intern/Training program will start on April 1st each year.
Are drugs and/or alcohol permitted?
In accordance with our healthy spirit/mind/body mission and federal law, we have a
zero-tolerance policy for alcohol or drugs on property; in addition, no drug use is tolerated
(including marijuana) during your employment with us whether on or off-duty. If you want to use
marijuana, don’t apply for our International programs.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Please contact our International Department at 970-586-3341 x1047 or email amoulden@ymcarockies.org..
Meet some of our team members.
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The best part of working at the YMCA is meeting people from everywhere around the world. The high ropes experience challenged me and I loved it!
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The YMCA is a great place to meet people and hear stories about their experiences in various cultures. By serving at the YMCA I will gain a long-term vision to create positive future change.
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I love that I can learn about other countries’ cultures. International staff get to participate in the International Fair and Dinner. They also are partnered with American Host Families to do once-a-month activities. Host Families learn about our culture and we learn about the culture of the USA.
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Working at the YMCA feels like you are on vacation every day! You get to spend time in the beautiful mountains and have a great view of the Rockies. Time passes so fast!
