SUMMER INTERNSHIP 2005
		Susan Harnarine - Rotman, MBA CEI Host Organization - Framework Foundation CEI Funding partner - Rotman School of Management

This summer I am working for a Toronto-based charitable organization called Framework Foundation. The mission of Framework is to empower young Canadians aged 22-35 to build stronger communities by volunteering. Framework focuses on this age demographic since little effort is contributed to engaging this group yet there is tremendous opportunity for them to add value within communities. One of Framework’s major engagement programs is a Timeraiser. A Timeraiser is an art auction with a twist; rather than bidding with dollars participants pledge volunteer hours with local charities in order to receive the artwork.

There are two major projects I will be completing this summer. The first is Corporate Outreach, a project that educates employers about Employer Supported Volunteerism as well as teaches employees within the targeted demographic about the voluntary sector and how they can become involved within their communities. The second project I will complete this summer is the National Strategy on Increased Volunteer Involvement (NSIVI). Since the Toronto Timeraisers have been very successful, Framework will be expanding this innovative idea nationally. The NSIVI is a comprehensive research report which will explore the major volunteer issues and stakeholders within 19 cities across Canada. It will also examine key statistics regarding 22-35 year old Canadians and unique characteristics of each city.

Framework Foundation is a great summer placement..the staff and my director are fun, very energetic and motivated which makes coming into work much easier! I haven't worked in the voluntary sector before so it was a bit of a change...still getting used to lack of resources! I am very excited about the projects I am doing and know that it will benefit the organization a great deal.

Hope to hear how your summer internships are working out!

take care,

Sue