Intern – Emergency Shelter Internship

A Safe Place Internship • Waukegan, IL

72d

About The Position

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. Internship Snapshot 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. Client Support & Advocacy Shelter Operations & Community Engagement Professional Development & Training Operational Exposure You will learn how advocacy intersects with one of the most mission-driven and survivor-centered programs in Lake County.

Requirements

• 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
• 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

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred, but not required

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

• 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).

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees