Student stories: Work experience to kickstart careers
At Family Fund, our internships give young people the opportunity to develop their skills and gain meaningful experience with work that makes a difference.
Crystal joined our Green Team as an Intern Sustainability Officer after graduating with a degree in Sustainability and Environmental Management. Her placement gave her the chance to put her studies into practice while helping us explore how we can reduce our environmental impact and make sustainability part of everyday decisions.
Having a positive impact
From a young age, Crystal knew she wanted a career that would have a positive impact on people’s lives. Her interest in environmental issues led her to study sustainability and explore how communities and organisations can help both people and the planet thrive.
Crystal’s interest in Family Fund was also shaped by her own awareness of the importance of inclusion. She was inspired by an organisation that listens to families, responds to their needs without judgement and works to create opportunities for everyone to thrive.
“What attracted me most was the chance to embed sustainability into an organisation that is already creating significant social value. Finding a role where I could combine my passion with an organisation whose purpose is grounded in improving people’s lives felt like a perfect fit.”
Putting sustainability into practice
During her internship, Crystal reviewed our carbon reporting and environmental work, researched best practice across the charity sector and contributed to the development of our Environmental Policy. The placement also gave her opportunities to collaborate with colleagues across Family Fund Group and consider how environmental ambitions can work alongside our charitable purpose.
“Instead of viewing sustainability and charitable impact as separate priorities, I looked for solutions that could deliver both environmental and social benefits.”
Alongside her sustainability work, Crystal also supported Family Fund by volunteering at the York Dragon Boat Race.
“Taking part in fundraising activities was a fantastic experience and gave me another perspective on the incredible impact that Family Fund has. It was a lot of fun, and it was inspiring to see colleagues, supporters, and communities come together to raise funds that help Family Fund continue its important work.”
From ideas to action
One of the things Crystal valued most was the freedom to explore ideas, ask questions and contribute in a meaningful way. She says working with the Green Team gave her the confidence to share her own thinking and take responsibility for projects.
Reviewing and updating the Environmental Policy was an important achievement.
“I am proud that the contributions I made have the potential to have a lasting impact beyond my placement,” she says. “It is rewarding to know that the work I have been involved in can continue supporting Family Fund’s journey.”
Growing in confidence
The internship helped Crystal strengthen her communication, research and critical-thinking skills. She learned how to turn complex sustainability ideas into clear and engaging information, balancing environmental aims with operational needs and Family Fund’s mission.
It also gave her practical experience of how sustainability works outside the classroom.
“The skills I have gained here have been invaluable and have shaped the outlook I have moving forward,” she says.
Stay curious and ask questions
Crystal’s advice to other young people considering an internship is: “Stay curious and never be afraid to ask questions.”
She encourages others to share their ideas even when they are unsure, as conversations can help develop an initial thought into something stronger.
Crystal’s experience shows what can happen when young people are given trust, support and space to put their ideas into practice. Keep an eye on our vacancies for future internship opportunities.
“Sustainability is a goal with a moving goalpost, but the more we keep having conversations and thinking about how to do better, the more we can create a better world for everyone. I think Family Fund is doing an amazing job of thinking more broadly about its future and the future of the families and children it supports.”
Read more about Family Fund’s carbon journey.
