Partnership's internship experience returning

SANDUSKY — The Greater Sandusky Partnership recently opened applications for employers to enroll their college-age interns in the 2026 Summer on Sandusky Bay Internship Experience. It's a six-week program designed to enhance internship opportunities and strengthen talent retention across the region. The Summer on Sandusky Bay Internship Experience invites interns to step beyond the workplace one day each week to engage in curated professional development, peer networking and immersive regional experiences. Organized and facilitated by the partnership, the program connects interns to the people, places, and opportunities that define the Greater Sandusky Bay region. Now in its second year, the program is designed to help employers provide a more robust and meaningful internship experience that supports professional growth and builds a deeper connection between interns and the community. "Summer on Sandusky Bay is about creating meaningful experiences that develop, engage and inspire the next generation of talent," said Jarvis Cole-Caston, the partnership's talent development and engagement manager. "By connecting interns to each other, to employers and to the region itself, we're helping them see a future here and strengthening our ability to retain talent long-term." The 2026 program will begin with a kickoff event on May 27 and continue through mid-July, featuring weekly sessions that highlight different aspects of the region. Planned experiences include: • An orientation and kickoff event at Clubhouse No.3 SportSocial • A tour of downtown Sandusky • A Cleveland Guardians game experience, sponsored by Civista Bank • Industry and culinary experiences, including visits to the Culinary Vegetable Institute and Chef's Garden • Volunteer and philanthropy activities in partnership with Leadership Erie County and the Erie County Community Foundation • An island's day experience, sponsored by Jet Express Additional regional experiences will be announced. Through these activities, interns gain exposure to the region's industries, amenities and community assets, helping them build relationships, grow confidence and better understand the opportunities available to them locally. Employers who participate in the program provide their interns with access to a structured, high-impact experience that complements their day-to-day work while requiring minimal additional coordination. The partnership organizes all programming, including activities and meals, as part of the program cost. Employers interested in participating are encouraged to register their interns today. Apply and learn more by visiting business.greatersandusky.com/events and searching for "Summer on Sandusky Bay Internship Experience."