Apply — The Launch Pad · Big Red Treats

Before you apply — the facts

What it is: a paid, nine-month internship — not a first job, a launch pad. Real work, real mentorship, real skills.
Who it’s for: ages 16–20. You must be 16 by September 1.
Pay: $17/hour to start, +$1 every August you return.
Hours: 12–36 a week, including at least one weekend shift.
The year: kicks off August 11, then runs through mid-May, ending with graduation.
Our stores: Downtown and the Prairie District in Grand Island — you’ll train at both. Open noon–10 p.m., seven days a week.
The commitment: August through May, monthly skill modules and quarterly reviews. Each participant may reapply each year.
You also get: monthly 1-on-1 mentoring, a personality assessment, access to Arc & Ember (our coworking space), team outings, volunteer days, a graduation certificate, and a personal letter of recommendation.
What’s next: we read every application. If yours moves forward, we’ll reach out for an interview and you’ll hear back shortly after.
Heads up: if you’re under 18 and accepted, a parent/guardian co-signs the commitment and a photo/media release.

I’ve read this and I understand what the Launch Pad is and what it asks of me. (Read the full “Why” →)

Take your time and fill this out thoughtfully and carefully. We’re not looking for perfection — we’re looking for effort. Honest answers in your own words tell us far more than polished ones.

About you

First name *

Last name *

Date of birth * — must be 16 by Sept 1

Phone *

Email *

School & grade *

Parent / guardian name *

Parent / guardian phone *

How did you hear about the Launch Pad? — optional

Tell us about you

1.What’s the ONE thing you’re most into right now — in school or out? Tell us about a moment a teacher or coach would remember you for. *

2.Why do you want this internship — and honestly, what’s the money for? *

3.In your own words, how is this internship different from a regular part-time job? What would make it worth more to you than just a paycheck? *

4.Look ahead a few years: how do you think this internship could help you in the long run — in school, in a career, or in life? *

5.Tell us about a real time you helped someone when nobody asked you to. *

6.What’s something you did around the house lately without being told? How did you know it needed doing? *

7.Tell us about something you stuck with after it stopped being fun — and something you quit. What was the difference? *

8.Tell us about a time a coach, teacher, or boss corrected you. What happened, and what did you do next? *

9.Real talk: how’s your relationship with your phone? When’s the last time it got you in trouble? *

10.You’re on the schedule for a Saturday and your friends make plans that day. Tell us about a time that actually happened — what did you do? *

+Anything you want to ask us — or want us to know? — optional

Before you submit

Applications due 10 p.m. Sunday, August 2. Cohort 1 begins August 11.

Apply to the Launch Pad

Before you apply — the facts

Thanks — we’ve got it.