by Rosie Tate, The Park Adoption Community Center Intern, Summer 2025
This summer, I had the privilege of being a cultural support intern at The Park Adoption Community Center. It was a unique opportunity to learn about CCAI and The Park and to see firsthand how they support the adoptee community. I gained practical skills for working in a professional, nonprofit setting and a clearer sense of whether I want to pursue a career in the adoption community. I’m so grateful for my time at The Park and for everyone who made me feel welcomed and supported.
As a cultural support intern, I helped with CCAI’s 33rd reunion celebration, the lion dance camp, and the 5-day Chinese cultural camp. Being part of these events made it clear how vast and unique the adoptee
community is. As an adoptee myself, I loved being in an adoptee-centered space where our voices are
celebrated and uplifted. I especially enjoyed getting to know the campers and learning alongside them more about Chinese culture. Adoption is complicated and nuanced, which is why supportive spaces like The Park are so important—places where adoptees can learn, grow, and connect.
While I appreciated every aspect of the internship, my favorite part was getting to know the other interns
and staff. I was nervous about being in a new city where I didn’t know anyone, but that anxiety faded quickly. I connected deeply with the other interns, who were also adoptees, and with adoptee staff members. That shared understanding made us feel comfortable with each other right away.
As I continue learning more about myself and my adoptee identity, I’m realizing just how essential
community is. I’m grateful to The Park for helping me find community, for helping other adoptees do the
same, and for making my summer so meaningful. Yes, I’ll remember this as an important step in my
professional journey, but I’ll remember even more the nightly Love Island screenings, sunrise at Red Rocks, late-night karaoke, and the people who made it all unforgettable.
To learn more about becoming a summer intern with The Park Adoption Community Center, please click here.
