Emergency Shelter Internship - Fall 2025/ Spring 2026

A Safe Place-posted 3 months ago
Part-time • Intern
Waukegan, IL
51-100 employees
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A Safe Place has been a beacon of hope across Lake County for over 46 years—empowering survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking to rebuild their lives. As an intern, you’ll play a meaningful role in fostering safety, independence, and brighter futures for survivors. Gain hands-on experience in emergency shelter operations, client-centered advocacy, and trauma-informed care—all while building essential professional skills in a compassionate, mission-driven environment.

  • Shadow and assist staff in developing safety plans and managing cases to support shelter residents.
  • Support crisis counseling, advocacy efforts, and connections to community resources.
  • Help facilitate legal referrals, community benefits support (e.g., DHS), and education on domestic violence laws.
  • Assist with daily shelter operations—such as donations coordination, community outreach, and volunteer support.
  • Participate in client check-ins and record-keeping, learning to maintain accurate documentation.
  • Engage in volunteer mentorship and build relationships with local partner agencies.
  • Attend staff meetings, training sessions, and team activities to gain exposure to best practices and organizational collaboration.
  • Receive training in key standards like IM+CANS and a 40-hour Domestic Violence certification (as relevant or scheduled).
  • Foster cultural competence, maintain professional boundaries, and align with ethical frameworks like the NASW Code of Ethics.
  • Observe scheduling logistics and flexible coverage routines, including weekend or holiday shifts, supply runs, and cross-program collaboration.
  • Learn about adaptations for accessibility, such as navigating facility logistics and safely handling light tasks.
  • Pursuing a degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, Human Services, Criminal Justice, or a related field.
  • Passionate about survivor safety, empowerment, and systems-level change.
  • Strong emotional intelligence and sensitivity to trauma.
  • Organized, proactive, and ready to contribute in fast-paced environments.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred, but not required.
  • Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, Teams, and digital documentation tools.
  • Strong communicator with a heart for social justice and survivor-centered care.
  • Able to maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards.
  • Reliable transportation and flexibility to attend events or court sessions during the day.
  • In-depth knowledge of how emergency shelters provide safety, stability, and immediate resources for survivors of domestic violence.
  • Shadowing opportunities with shelter advocates and staff to observe case management, crisis intervention, and safety planning.
  • Experience supporting survivors through critical transitions, including intake, daily living needs, and connections to community resources.
  • Training in trauma-informed practices, the Illinois Domestic Violence Act, safety protocols, and shelter operational procedures.
  • The opportunity to make a tangible difference in someone’s pursuit of safety, stability, and healing.
  • A resume-building, meaningful experience in survivor advocacy, social services, and crisis shelter operations.
  • Exposure to the Illinois Model for Comprehensive Assessment of Needs and Strengths (IM+CANS).
  • 40-Hour Domestic Violence Certification Training (provided at a discounted rate).
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