Direct Service Specialist Intern- Paid

WAYNE-METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY•Detroit, MI

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

In our pursuit to eliminate poverty, Wayne Metro empowers people and communities to be strong, healthy, and thriving. We envision thriving communities where all people have hope and opportunities to realize their full potential. Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency consists of staff dedicated to serving others, which include professionalism, empathy, respect, excellent client service, maintaining confidentiality, punctuality with regular attendance. We provide assistance to low to moderate income families to help address their most critical needs. The agency has over 70 programs, including valuable educational, housing, and emergency services. Wayne Metro seeks a motivated and detail-oriented individual with an interest in community services and public assistance programs. This internship provides hands-on experience supporting utility assistance and intake operations, including the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP), Water Assistance Programs, Weatherization (Wx) Intake, and Resident Services. The intern will work collaboratively with program teams to support client intake, application processing, and service coordination. Responsibilities include assisting with eligibility screening, data entry, documentation review, and client communication to ensure efficient and accurate service delivery. This role offers valuable exposure to program operations, client-centered service models, and the coordination of multiple funding streams to support household stability. The ideal candidate is organized, compassionate, and eager to learn about community action programs and the impact of utility assistance services.

Requirements

Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Social Work, Public Administration, Human Services, Nonprofit Management, or a related field
Strong interest in community action programs, utility assistance, and serving low-income populations
Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
Comfortable interacting with diverse populations in a professional and empathetic manner
Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and/or Google Workspace
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately
Self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
High school diploma/general education degree (GED) OR a combination of education and experience that is similarly equivalent
Pass Criminal Background check & Drug Screening
Ability to work a hybrid schedule
Have experience in Excel and Google Space
Professionalism in appearance, tact, punctuality, and dependability
Perform work in a manner that upholds Wayne Metro policies, procedures, and mission

Nice To Haves

Experience with data entry or case management systems is a plus
Bilingual (preferred but not required)

Responsibilities

Assist with client intake for utility assistance programs, including MEAP, Water Assistance, Weatherization (Wx), and Resident Services
Support eligibility screening by reviewing applications and verifying required documentation
Enter and update client data accurately in agency databases (e.g., EmpowOR)
Assist with processing applications and tracking case statuses
Communicate with clients via phone, email, or in-person to obtain missing information and provide program updates
Help coordinate referrals to internal programs (e.g., Wx, conservation services) and external community resources
Maintain organized digital and physical client files in compliance with program guidelines
Support outreach efforts by assisting with intake events, prescreening activities, and community engagement initiatives
Collaborate with program staff to ensure timely and accurate service delivery
Adhere to confidentiality standards and handle sensitive client information with discretion
Assist with basic reporting, data tracking, and program performance monitoring as needed
Participate in team meetings, trainings, and continuous improvement activities