A.R.T. Program

Real Life Experiences Enhance Internships

New HHYS Staff & Interns

Employment & Internship

A.R.T.

In July 2009 the A.R.T program, Aggression Replacement Training was put into place in order to solve the problem of aggression and inappropriate behaviors stemming from unresolved anger.
            The Aggression Replacement Training Program is comprised of three components, Skillstreaming, Anger Control Training and Moral Reasoning. The sessions focus on three main issues which are family, consequence and interactions with each other.The first component, Skillstreaming, which teaches pro-social behavioral skills through coordinated role-play and feedback opportunities, addresses the topics of social planning skills, and dealing appropriately with feelings, aggression, and stress. Secondly, the Anger Control Training group teaches recognition of personal triggers and cues. Students in this group learn to practice anger reducers and to think ahead about consequences in order to encourage increased self-control. The last section is Moral Reasoning. This focuses on peer feedback and discussion. This type of group is helpful to youth because they are able to learn from their peers, respect others opinions, and recognize discussions that are relevant to them.
            Lorie Askins, who is coordinator of the program, has been employed here for nine years both as an assistant unit supervisor and trained counselor. She has acquired a master’s degree in community counseling from Edinboro University and has a background working for the Youth Program City Mission. Lorie is dedicated to helping the youth to increase pro-social behaviors and decrease aggression.

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Real Life Experiences Enhance Internships

            Hermitage House Youth Services is a caring, productive, and educational setting where many internship opportunities can be found.  There are opportunities for social work, criminal justice, and even communication majors. 
            Multiple interns are taken every semester from different Universities around Erie and Crawford County, especially Edinboro University.  Students are even provided with a stipend upon completion of their internship. 
            Amy Borowiak, a senior criminal justice major said, “This chance is amazing.  I have been able to see for myself what these children have gone through and have the chance to help. 
            Criminal Justice graduate, Michael Lardin said, “My internship here at Hermitage House Youth Services was very beneficial.  I received real life experience within my field.  I gained many skills working with kids to working with the government agencies.” 
            Social Work and Criminal Justice students have the chance to get hands on experience in their fields working within the different units and shelter at HHYS.  Students are responsible for working with troubled youth of our communities helping them get back on their feet. 
            Internships for communication studies students are also available.  The student can get real life experience in public relations, event planning, promotional work, and much more. 
“It has been a great experience so far here at Hermitage House,” said Anthony Casanola, a senior Criminal Justice major.  “I’ve been in training and recently started working with the children, putting my knowledge from classes to real life scenarios.” 
            At HHYS there is also a high rate of interns hired upon graduation.  This gives new graduates an initial foothold into the work force.  “I was hired straight out of my internship at HHYS,” said Michael Lardin.  “I have been working here for two years now.  I think it is a great experience for students looking for internship opportunities.” 
            According to employees at Hermitage House Youth Services the work environment is easy going and welcoming. They feel if it is more of a close community then a work place.  “I immediately felt comfortable when I started here,” said Amy Borowiak.  “There is humor incorporated into work here not just a strict environment where no one has fun. It is also nice because the kids can see that it is ok to have fun sometimes and still be productive.”

WELCOME TO OUR NEW STAFF:

                            Ashley Bell                                         Victoria Pavolko

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                                Amanda Kean  
                    
                       

                            Ashley Muckinhaupt

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AT HHYS

• HHYS is always accepting employment applications at our Main Office
  located at 25493 Route 99 in Cambridge Springs, PA 16403
• Entry Level positions: most often part time, direct care youthworkers
• Need: 2nd Shifts, weekend shifts,holiday shifts, and "awake" 3rd shifts
• Group training (paid) is provided and HHYS obtains thorough reference check,
  criminal history record, and child abuse check
• Qualifications: Applicant must be at least 21 and must be able to convey a balance
  between caring and assertiveness, be responsible, honest, dependable, and must truly
  want to help troubled youth get on the right pathH

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AT HHYS

• HHYS has long history of providing excellent internship opportunities
• Both Bachelor and Masters level internships available
• Students from Edinboro University, Gannon University, Mercyhurst College
• Various Majors: Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Sociology, Rehab Counseling, etc.
• Group Training is provided
• Work directly in a Unit with youth as a regular staff member as you work shifts in Unit,
  participate in staff meetings, attend court hearings, meet with caseworkers / probation officers.
  interact with parents, counsel individuals, oversee groups and activities
• PAY: Stipends are available up to $500.00
• We value interns highly and view the internship as a win-win situation:
  you get a great experience and HHYS gets a responsible, motivated adult to help our youth
  receive more individual attention to aid in meeting their life goals.
• If interested, contact our Main Office (734-4951) and ask to speak to the
  Internship Coordinator. Openings are limited and internships are filled on a
  first-come, first-served basis.

 

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