International Programs

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 Trainee, Internship, Camp Counselor and Summer Work Programs, which provide opportunities for foreign nationals to continue their career education and build their work experience with us in a variety of fields.

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.

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The YMCA of the Rockies is an open environment where everyone matters. I’ve made so many meaningful friendships here and have grown a lot. This is place where self discovery happens and we help each other out.

Kamar, Conference

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Wendy, Guest Services

 

Laura, Food Service

 

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Program Eligibility

We’re excited that you are considering YMCA of the Rockies as your next step in your career path! Our International Trainee, Internship, Camp Counselor and Summer Work 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.

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.

Summer Work Requirements

A Summer Work visitor is a foreign national who is seeking work experience within the United States. Summer Work visitors must obtain a sponsor to qualify for a J1. All exchange visitors are expected to return to their home country upon completion of their program in order to share their exchange experiences. A J-1 holder is only allowed to perform the activity listed on his/her Form DS-2019 and as stated in the regulations for that category of exchange. For more information, explore the FAQ’s below.

Additional Information on the International Programs

Do I get paid to participate in the International program?
Yes! International trainees, interns and summer work employees will receive housing (dormitory style) and meals plus a weekly stipend (currently $220 per week). The 40- hour work week includes some morning, evening and weekend shifts. Trainees receive their share of the Appreciation Fund (tips) given by our guests at the end of the program.
Does the YMCA of the Rockies cover visa fees?
The YMCA of the Rockies supports participants giving $1000 toward visa sponsor fees. We will give the participant a check for $500 at 6 months of the training program and the remaining $500 dollars at the end of the program. If the participant leaves early, he or she will lose this benefit.
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 such as the YMCA of the Rockies, the financial processes of a non-profit that makes $25 million per year, 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. 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?
As a YMCA of the Rockies employee, you’ll receive 3 free meals per day, 7 days per week as part of the compensation packet.

For more FAQ on Intern/Trainee click here and SWT FAQ click here

Diverse Opportunities

WE WILL START ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2018 INTERNSHIP AND TRAINEE PROGRAMS ON AUGUST 15, 2017, WITH A DEADLINE OF NOVEMBER 1, 2017. Our Summer Work Travel applications are open for Winter August 1st – October 1st. Our Estes Park applications are open for Summer Work Travel November 1st – February 28th.

Job Opportunities for International Internship & Trainee Programs

Job Opportunities for Summer Work Students

  • Housekeeping
  • Conference Set-Up & Services
  • Lifeguard
  • Camp Counselor
  • Arts & Crafts

Estes Park Center

  • Food Service
  • Housekeeping
  • Lifeguard
  • Camp Counselor
  • Recreation Attendant

Snow Mountain Ranch

  • Food Service
  • Camp Counselor
  • Housekeeping

Camp Chief Ouray

Join Us

We invite you to join us in this amazing work—to develop your skills, to realize your leadership potential and to discover a career that is so much more than a job.