Sam Smith Memorial Summer Internship
A paid construction internship creating opportunity for Eastern Kentucky youth.
Applications for Summer 2026 NOW OPEN
Apply By May 8, 2026!
Program Overview
The Sam Smith Memorial Summer Internship is an 8-week, paid, hands-on construction internship offered by the Housing Development Alliance (HDA). The program is designed to provide meaningful job training and employment experience for young adults in Eastern Kentucky – particularly those who have been impacted by the foster care system or are otherwise disadvantaged.
Interns work alongside skilled HDA carpenters to build new affordable homes and complete home repair projects in the community, gaining practical skills and real-world experience in the construction trade.
Internship Details at a Glance
Who: Young adults ages 18–21
Priority given to those who have aged out of, are recommitted to, or have been involved in the foster care system; however, all disadvantaged young adults (especially those from low-income households) are encouraged to applyWhen: June 8 – July 31, 2026 (tentative)
Schedule: 40 hours per week, 4-day work week
Pay: $13/hour + benefits
Positions Available: 3 interns
Location: Hazard, Kentucky and surrounding areas
- Transportation: While a driver’s license is not required, it is preferred. Trainees must be able to transport themselves (or otherwise arrange transportation for themselves) to the Hazard office to report for work each morning.
What Interns Will Do
Interns will:
Gain hands-on training in residential construction
Work on active job sites framing, finishing, and completing home repairs
Build two new affordable homes and assist with five home rehabilitation projects
Learn teamwork, communication, and workplace professionalism
Network with local contractors and industry professionals
This is real work on real projects – with real impact.
What We’re Looking For
Applicants must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be available for the full 8-week program
Be willing to learn, show up consistently, and work as part of a crew
If available positions are not filled by young adults from the foster care system, other youth who would benefit from the opportunity will be considered.
Why This Program Matters
Young people aging out of foster care often face significant barriers to employment, education, and housing stability. According to a 2023 study by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, many young adults leave the foster care system without access to employment assistance or vocational training.
At the same time, Eastern Kentucky faces a shortage of skilled construction workers.
This internship was created to address both challenges – by providing paid job training, workforce exposure, and supportive connections that help young adults move toward long-term employment or postsecondary education, while strengthening the local housing workforce.
Beyond the Internship
While completion of the internship does not guarantee full-time employment with HDA, interns who perform well may be considered for future job opportunities.
Interns are also encouraged to explore construction-related coursework at Hazard Community & Technical College. Those who enroll in relevant courses and demonstrate strong performance may be invited to return for a second summer internship, if positions are available.
Questions or Need Help? Contact:
Shannon Gabbard, Hope Building & Internship Director
Office: 606-436-0497, ext. 1011
