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A Safe Place · 3 months ago

Intern – Emergency Shelter Internship

Waukegan, IL

Internship

Onsite

Intern

A Safe Place has been supporting survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking for over 46 years. As an intern, you will gain hands-on experience in emergency shelter operations, client-centered advocacy, and trauma-informed care, while supporting shelter residents and learning about best practices in a mission-driven environment.

Non ProfitService Industry

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

Qualification

Social WorkTrauma-informed careCrisis interventionMicrosoft Office proficiencyBilingual (English/Spanish)Emotional intelligenceOrganizational skillsCommunication skillsConfidentialityTeam collaboration

Required

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

Completion of the 40-hour Domestic Violence & Crisis Intervention Training is a requirement for all interns

Preferred

Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred, but not required

Benefits

Course credit is available if approved by your institution.

Completion of the 40-hour Domestic Violence & Crisis Intervention Training is a requirement for all interns. This training is provided by A Safe Place at a discounted cost of $150.