During the month of July, the Borough of Swedesboro hosted its second annual Summer Internship Program for local teens. Created by Borough Clerk Tanya Goodwin, the program allows students ages 14 to 18 the opportunity to explore the inner workings of municipal operations while serving in their own community.

Ms. Goodwin designed the program to teach students not only the importance of volunteerism, but to get kids interested in municipal government, noting that community attendance at Council meetings is typically sparse. “Many times, we don’t hear from residents until after ordinances have passed, and after changes have already been implemented. We hope that by allowing teens the chance to see what goes on behind the scenes, we’ll inspire them to get involved.”

During the two-week program, students visited the Swedesboro Historical Society Museum, the Woolwich Township municipal building and police station, and the Swedesboro branch of the Gloucester County Library. Participants helped with municipal mailings, met the Borough’s Solicitor, Engineer, and Auditor, and worked closely with Borough staff while observing and participating in day to day operations. When asked about their favorite parts of the program, the responses were varied. Jeremy, a Kingsway sophomore, noted that he enjoyed touring the police station and municipal courts. Oksana, a senior at Kingsway, expressed her excitement at getting to explore local government and gauge her interest in pursuing a career in politics.

While the Borough originally planned to select only 5 interns from the application pool, Ms. Goodwin, Borough Council, and Mayor Fromm were so impressed with the applications that all 14 students were invited to participate. Each student who successfully completed the Swedesboro internship received a $180 stipend at the close of the program.