Northwest Passage is seeking an intern to assist with our therapeutic nature photography and underwater photography program.

Duties include the following:

• Directly assist with preparation and implementation of experiential arts and nature-based programming. This includes 1-2 full-day nature photography excursions per week.
• Directly assist with preparation and implementation of at least one underwater photography excursion per week.
• Potential to design and implement your own arts or nature-based program if desired, based on your personal skills and interests. This may include music, pottery, creative writing, or any other programming you can envision.
• Assist participants with photo editing and processing in the digital darkroom.
• Coordinate digital file management of youths’ photos.
• Mentor clients through the process of writing creative reflection to accompany their photos.
• Work alongside experienced and talented staff. Supervision and mentorship provided by program directors and the Expressive Arts Coordinator.
• Participate in formal training and discussion sessions.
• Assist in day-to-day operations of a residential treatment facility.
• Assist with special projects and community outreach events as necessary.

• Coursework in outdoor education or recreational therapy preferred.
• Strong communication skills with both youth and adults.
• Ability to connect to youth from highly diverse backgrounds.
• Comfort in working both independently and in an intense team environment.
• Strong detail-oriented organization and planning skills.
• An authentic interest and comfort in nature, including intense wilderness settings.
• An authentic interest and experience in the arts.
• Photography and/or filmmaking experience is strongly preferred but not required.
• Comfort and confidence in the water, strong swimming ability is a must!

• Free housing
• Stipend of $800 per month
• Training and mentorship from skilled leaders and innovators.
• Unmatched real-world experience in the fields of mental health, arts programming, and nature-based programming.

Northwest Passage has been a leading non-profit residential mental health organization since 1978, serving a diverse range of youth including those who identify as LGBTQ, youth of color, youth who are neuro-diverse, and those who have been misunderstood by their own communities. We believe that every child possesses profound strength and potential and is capable of thriving. While blending traditional mental health treatment with arts and nature-based therapy, we create conditions that unleash inner strength, ultimately empowering our clients to re-write their inner narratives through a lens of hope. We also believe that relationships are the key element in a healing journey; our kids re-connect and re-engage with their life through meaningful, authentic relationships with our staff.

Though the problems facing children and teens have evolved since 1978, the fundamental needs for self-respect, trust, relationships, and steady guidance remain the same. And while Northwest Passage has grown in size and sophistication, we’ve never lost sight of the foundations all children need to be successful. Above anything else, Northwest Passage’s goal is to restore hope in our clients.

Northwest Passage’s facilities are nestled within the wild landscapes and idyllic small towns of Northwest Wisconsin. Your "office" might include a northern Wisconsin prairie, a yurt in the woods, a running river, a horse pasture, or underwater with a camera!