Life Enrichment Internship

Hoosier Village (A BHI Community) is a premiere senior living community. We offer continuing care at all levels dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults. Set on expansive and beautifully maintained grounds in Indianapolis, Indiana, we offer seniors residency and life options that align perfectly with their vision of retirement.

The Life Enrichment Intern plays an essential role in supporting and enhancing the well-being of residents through intentional, person-centered programming. This internship provides a meaningful opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in aging services, therapeutic recreation, wellness, or a related field. Interns will actively participate in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of enrichment programs and will carry out purposeful projects that positively impact the lives of residents.

As a BHI Senior Living Community, the staff at Hoosier Village are united in mission, we lead with compassion and provide opportunities to grow and thrive professionally.

Why You'll Love Working Here:

At Hoosier Village, we know a fulfilling career is about more than a paycheck.

What You’ll Gain:

• Direct experience in resident engagement and life enrichment programming in a senior living environment.
• A deeper understanding of aging, dementia, and holistic wellness approaches.
• The opportunity to lead a project with measurable outcomes and impact.
• Mentorship and feedback from experienced professionals in the field.

In This Role You Will:

• Resident Engagement & Support
• Build meaningful one-on-one relationships with residents through regular personal interaction, conversation, and companionship.
• Assist in the facilitation of daily group and individual programs focused on cognitive, emotional, social, physical, and spiritual wellness.
• Observe and document resident participation and engagement in electronic health record, noting individual preferences and opportunities for personalized programming.

Program Development:

• Interview residents or responsible parties to gain knowledge on residents and complete missing life history documentation.
• Collaborate with the Life Enrichment team to develop, coordinate, and lead meaningful programs aligned with residents’ interests and abilities according to life history documentation.
• Initiate or participate in purposeful projects (e.g., intergenerational programming, legacy activities, resident storytelling, or sensory-based experiences).
• Introduce creative ideas that enhance the current life enrichment offerings and reflect the intern’s unique skills or academic focus.

Purpose-Driven Projects:

• Take ownership of a capstone project that supports resident quality of life and has long-term value to the community.
• Examples may include designing a memory support activity toolkit, creating a newsletter, creating a volunteer training guide, or developing a music therapy playlist library.

Team Collaboration:

• Attend team meetings and contribute to enrichment planning and brainstorming sessions.
• Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and families to support community-wide events and celebrations.
• Help create a warm, inclusive, and stimulating environment that supports resident autonomy and purpose.

Who You Are:

• Enrolled in or recently graduated from a degree program in gerontology, therapeutic recreation, social work, psychology, occupational therapy, human services, or a related field.
• Passion for working with older adults and a desire to make a meaningful impact.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Creativity, flexibility, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office, email communication).
• Willingness to uphold confidentiality and demonstrate professional behavior at all times.

Hoosier Village is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.