Summer 2027 Social Services Practicum

ArchCity Defenders•Saint Louis, MO

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

ArchCity Defenders (ACD) is a holistic legal advocacy organization dedicated to combating the criminalization of poverty and state violence, particularly in communities of color. ACD's integrated approach, encompassing civil and criminal legal representation, social services, impact litigation, policy and media advocacy, and community collaboration, strives to achieve justice and equitable outcomes for individuals throughout the St. Louis region and beyond. ACD envisions a society free from oppressive systems, where justice and racial equity are realized. This includes communities that prioritize well-being, health, and transformation over criminalization and incarceration, allowing people to thrive regardless of race or income. ACD and its partners are actively involved in re-envisioning public safety, promoting community well-being through policy changes, and holding public institutions accountable for misconduct. They challenge a system of policing, courts, and jails that prioritizes municipal financial needs over community welfare, a practice that gained national attention during the 2014 Ferguson Uprising and persists in the region. The organization engages in litigation and collaborative advocacy to end abusive practices and empower targeted communities. The practicum student will work alongside a diverse staff of attorneys, paralegals, social workers, community organizers, and media advocates, providing holistic advocacy to address the root causes and consequences of poverty and legal system involvement. The role supports the social services team in demonstrating how communities can reimagine public safety through a racial and social justice lens, creating pathways for self-determination and community empowerment. ACD offers practicum experience at the intersection of law and social work, where interns provide holistic, trauma-informed case management, including support with housing, identification, public benefits, and transportation. The program also facilitates a Food Delivery program and an annual Holiday Gift Drive. A successful intern is expected to be assertive, independent, persistent, empathetic, proactive, and flexible, taking initiative, utilizing problem-solving skills, completing projects, and advocating for themselves and others.

Requirements

Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
Comfort and experience with researching resources and programs for clients
Detail-oriented approach to working in a team-driven organization
High capacity for problem-solving and self-direction and the ability to work independently within time constraints
Flexible and able to respond appropriately to ACD’s changing needs
Must be able to maintain appropriate client boundaries
Commitment to racial and economic justice and systems change
Cultural awareness and sensitivity toward diverse populations; awareness of structures of power, privilege, and oppression
Knowledge of homelessness and/or the criminal legal system; best practices, particularly around economic gaps and needs; or passion to learn about these issues, systems, and resources

Responsibilities

Conduct intakes and bio-psycho-social assessments and provide holistic, trauma-informed case management for clients
Work closely with the social services team and legal staff to assist with various client needs
Strategize with field instructor, attorneys, social workers, and clients regarding goals and case plan
Maintain proper records and documentation for agency internal and external requirements
Offer crisis intervention, psychoeducation, affirming and empathetic listening, and support to clients/clients’ families
Empower clients by working with them to identify barriers and solutions
Create and maintain an up-to-date client support resource list
Be self-aware and know when to seek help from supervisor/co-workers
Develop and maintain positive working relationships with community resources to foster effective coordination of services for clients
Attend any trainings as assigned
Participate in mezzo- and macro-level social work projects as needed
Support the mission of ACD and work with staff to support that mission through social work services
Any other duties as assigned to help the social services team do its best work