Fayette County’s Abigail Brown Giving Back as Youth Villages Intern
Memphis, Tenn. (June 16, 2025) — Abigail Brown, a Fayette County resident and current student at the University of Memphis majoring in psychology, is one of 96 college students from across the nation trading in their classrooms and books for valuable work experience as they begin summer internships with Youth Villages. This year’s internship class represents 48 different colleges and universities from across 15 states.
The Youth Villages summer internship program is highly competitive within the field, receiving an average of more than 600 applications over the last six years. For its 2025 summer internship program, Youth Villages had more than 950 applications. This year marks the largest class of interns (96) since Youth Villages began its summer internship program in 2000.
“This incredible group brings fresh perspectives, energy and compassion that will leave a lasting impact on those we serve at Youth Villages,” said Luke Self, managing director of recruiting for Youth Villages. “We’re excited for the growth they’ll experience as they build skills and deepen their understanding of behavioral health.”
Summer interns will serve at the organization’s Memphis residential campuses and Nashville-area group homes. Hailing from degree programs in social work, psychology, education and more, interns will gain hands-on experience working with youth ages 6 to 17 by assisting them with positive development and implementation of individual goals; planning and leading recreational activities; and being a positive role model in demonstrating a healthy and wholesome approach to life. Ms. Brown will intern for Youth Villages at its Bill’s Place campus helping the most at-risk boys ages 10-17 years old.
“We hope this summer is just the beginning, and that many of these interns will choose to start their careers with Youth Villages in the future,” said Mr. Self. “Hundreds of former interns have come back to work in full-time roles across the country after graduating. It’s one of our best recruiting tools.”
The program kicked off with a weeklong orientation, team-building activities and a welcome party hosted by CEO Patrick Lawler and other Youth Villages executives.
To learn more about the Youth Villages internship program.
About Youth Villages
Youth Villages is a national leader in mental and behavioral health committed to finding the most effective solutions to help children, families and young adults overcome obstacles and live successfully. Working through direct services, partnerships with innovative public agencies and advocacy, we collaborate to bring positive change to child welfare, children’s mental health and justice systems. Our 4,500 employees serve more than 43,000 children and young adults in more than 100 locations in 28 states and the District of Columbia. Youth Villages has been recognized by the Harvard Business School and U.S. News & World Report and was identified by The White House as one of the nation’s most promising results-oriented nonprofit organizations. Learn more about Youth Villages.
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