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A common misconception about the Valpo Surf Project is that we are a surf school. Though surfing is an important part of our programming, our work goes beyond learning how to surf. We use surfing as a tool to encourage personal growth within our students and to create a vibrant community where kids are able to thrive. A big component of making this work possible is our internship program.
The VSP Internship Program offers a unique opportunity for individuals to explore the world of nonprofit operations, youth mentorship, and community development. This program is an excellent fit for those passionate about making a difference while honing their professional skills in a dynamic, real-world environment.
Comprehensive Internship
The VSP Internship Program is a holistic experience that integrates participants into various aspects of our operations. Our day-to-day work is extensive, with different programming activities usually happening simultaneously. For example, on a Thursday afternoon we may be hosting a surf session with one of our school partners, while an English class will be happening at the same time at our HQ, the French-Alamos Center. Interns are an important part of making sure that different programming activities run smoothly, from planning and preparing materials beforehand, loading the VSP vans with surf gear, transporting students to-and-from activities, leading programming activities, mentoring VSP students, and washing wetsuits after surf sessions. From day-to-day administrative tasks to hands-on participation in programming activities, interns gain a well-rounded perspective of how a successful nonprofit functions. Beyond daily operations, additional internship roles are designed to match the interns' skills and interests with the needs of the organization, ensuring a mutually beneficial experience. Past interns have worked on projects related to fundraising, lesson planning, social media, volunteer management, and more.
Immersive International Experience
Our HQ and all of our programming activities are currently based in Valparaíso, Chile. Valparaíso is a colorful, hilly city located on the coast of Chile, an hour and a half from the country’s largest city and Capitol, Santiago de Chile. An internship with the Valpo Surf Project provides an unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Chilean culture and the Spanish language. Our office in Chile operates in Spanish, with the majority of our staff hailing from different parts of Chile. An internship with the VSP is an incredible way to meet new people, learn a new language, and join an international community.
Skills and Development
Interns at VSP develop a wide range of skills, from organizational and leadership skills to effective communication and team management. The dynamic setting of VSP—balancing surf sessions with educational programs—provides a fertile ground for developing both hard and soft skills. Interns leave the program not only with enhanced professional abilities but also with a deeper understanding of community dynamics and nonprofit management.
A Stepping Stone to Greater Opportunities
For many, the VSP internship is a stepping stone to bigger opportunities. Whether it’s furthering a career in social work, education, or nonprofit management, the experience at VSP equips interns with the knowledge and confidence to pursue their professional goals. Moreover, the networks and relationships built during the internship often lead to future collaborations and opportunities.
Year-Long Program
We ask interns to volunteer with Valpo Surf Project for one-year because we find that it takes time to get a handle of our work, Chilean Spanish, get to know our students, and integrate into our communities. The internship offers a unique opportunity to develop personally and professionally while immersing yourself in a different culture and contributing to a meaningful cause. It's ideal for individuals seeking to make a significant impact early in their careers through a community dedicated to positive change and the transformative power of surfing.
Photos of intern accommodations at our HQ, the French-Alamos Center:
Surf the Chilean Coast
One of the perks of being a VSP intern is access to VSP vehicles and surf equipment on days off. Chile has incredible waves and there is rarely a day where the ocean is completely flat. Past groups of interns have taken weekend trips to the surf capital of Chile, Pichilemu and take regular day trips to waves through the Valparaíso region. Don’t worry if you don’t know how to surf, many interns have little surf experience when they arrive. Through orientations, surf training, and surf outings with our staff, most come away as competent surfers.
For those interested in applying or learning more about the internship opportunities at VSP, visit
http://www.valposurfproject.org/internship-program. If you have any questions or would like to talk more about the opportunity, please reach out to Gabriela at gsalgado@valposurfproject.org.
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