By Jacob Will, VP of Health Services
The concept of the Trinity Woods CNA Student Internship Program began back in 2019, just when COVID-19 had just started to create interruptions. And while the program has faced obstacles, we are proud to say that after more than two years it is going strong and changing lives. Initially when Trinity
Woods collaborated with Nathan Hale High the objective was to provide an experience that would certify students as Nursing Aides (CNA) and provide a paid internship in our Healthcare Households during a semester.
We now work with two different schools – Nathan Hale and Union High Schools. This year we plan to offer four students (per semester) this internship opportunity but there is always space to expand if needed. The internship is divided into two parts, the certification class and then the onsite training here at Trinity Woods. Over the 10-12 week period the students work side by side with their mentors in the Health Center.
The immediate goal of the program is to introduce the students to the person centered care model at Trinity Woods and inspire a career path that will encourage them to advance their clinical education from CNA to Certified Medication Aide and ultimately to Licensed Practical Nurse and Registered Nurse. The long-term goal of the program is the development of a dedicated workforce committed to improving the quality of care of elders. We hope to empower students to explore their passions through individualized
educational opportunities supported by meaningful relationships. The strategy enables students to work outside the school walls and to guide students to develop self advocacy and self-reliance.
Since the beginning of the program Trinity Woods has hosted 19 students into the program. Of those 19, 10 students completed the program and were offered positions at Trinity Woods. Seven of those elected to accept positions at Trinity Woods.
As we look ahead, we are filled with gratitude for the donors who funded the internships. This program has been fully funded by the generosity of others. If you are interested in sponsoring an intern for the Fall semester, the cost is $2,800 and the results are priceless. For more information on helping
these amazing young people contact Bonnie Polak at 918.346.6639 or bpolak@trinitywoodstulsa.com. Truly, the best is yet to come!