2026 Social Work Intern

Innocence Project•New York, NY

About The Position

The Social Work Intern works alongside the Social Work Department to provide support to Innocence Project (IP) clients, assisting the Social Work Department in serving as a bridge in their transition to life outside of prison after wrongful incarceration. These responsibilities may also extend to other Network Member Organizations (NMO) across the country. In addition to providing client support and advocacy, the primary focus of this internship is to support the Social Work department in creating, facilitating and implementing programming and departmental initiatives. The Social Work Intern will also have the opportunity to work closely with other IP departments. This position will be a 10-week paid internship with a maximum requirement of 40 hours per week. Duties will commence on Monday, June 1 and conclude on Friday, August 14. All Innocence Project employees must embrace, respect, and value the rich diversity of perspectives and experiences of a diverse and heterogeneous staff. We recognize and appreciate that our work is better for having varied participants and thought partners. We are interested in every qualified candidate that is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas.

Requirements

Current enrollment in an accredited master's degree program in social work
Solid interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with a diverse range of individuals
Researching community resources
Strong understanding of the impact of the criminal justice system and intersectional oppression
Demonstrated interpersonal and counseling skills with a non-judgmental approach
Strong advocacy skills and a strong commitment to social justice
Proactive problem solver
Motivated and able to work independently and collaboratively
Must be able to work with groups of diverse individuals in respectful, equitable, and inclusive ways
Attention to detail
Persistent, patient and able to multitask
Enthusiasm for the work of the Innocence Project and for social justice, including a demonstrated commitment to public interest
Shares in the IP’s values of accountability, collaboration, empathy + compassion, equity, person-centeredness, quality focus, and self-awareness

Nice To Haves

Some experience facilitating groups preferred

Responsibilities

Provide social work services along with case management, including client advocacy and related support, in accordance with IP social work plans and guidelines
Conduct needs assessment for mental health, substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, domestic violence and medical needs.
Document findings in client records according to established protocol.
Submit reports on clientele, behavioral health consultations, screenings, assessments and brief treatment encounters, as appropriate.
May also be required to assist with board reports and other reporting requirements.
Assist with developing curriculum for psycho-educational groups
Assist with group facilitation working alongside social work staff
Provide support to Social Work department as needed
Collaborate with various departments on special projects
Coordinate and provide logistical support for clients, special projects and IP events