A Summer of Learning, Leadership and Mission
This summer, Girl Scouts Dakota Horizons partnered with the Barry Foundation to provide Isabel F., a rising senior at Horace High School, with a meaningful internship experience through the Philanthropy and Youth (PAY) Internship Program.
Based at the Fargo Service Center, Isabel worked alongside mentors Shirley Leiphon and Lora Schoepp to gain hands-on experience across development, retail, and mission delivery. The internship also connected Isabel with other interns and mentors throughout the Fargo/Moorhead community.
From attending TEDxFargo and an evening event at Trollwood to sharing the Girl Scout mission with her peers, Isabel had opportunities to see nonprofit work from many different perspectives. She also took on special projects that gave her a closer look at the work behind the scenes.
“This internship taught me the importance of loving what you do and believing in the mission that drives your work,” Isabel shared. “Girl Scouts Dakota Horizons is a great example of a mission-driven organization.”
For Isabel, the experience offered more than professional development. It gave her a firsthand look at the people, purpose, and passion behind a nonprofit organization. “I’ve loved getting to know all the people here at this organization, working on my special projects, and getting to see all of the work that goes into a nonprofit,” she said.
The opportunity was made possible through a grant from the Barry Foundation, which provided funding for Isabel’s internship as well as additional support for Girl Scouts Dakota Horizons. The partnership demonstrates the power of investing in young people while strengthening the organizations working to make a difference in our communities.
“This was such an eye-opening experience that I will never forget!” Isabel said.
We are grateful to the Barry Foundation for helping make this experience possible and to Isabel for bringing her curiosity, enthusiasm, and passion for the Girl Scout mission to our team this summer.
