Intern - Social Worker (Spcc)

General Statement

The Social Work Intern, under general supervision, performs advanced, professional level casework providing protective, investigative, counseling and case management services for children who at risk for neglect and/or abuse . Employees are assigned to local departments of Social Services and provide social work services including treatment and immediate response to crisis situations for at-risk children in the most complex cases in the departments. Work involves investigation of alleged neglect and abuse, substantiation of the alleged neglect or abuse as prescribed by federal and state guidelines, providing expert testimony in court hearings, and following-up with case management and preventive services for clients. Employees analyze situations and determine appropriate courses of action immediately or in short time spans and often under very stressful conditions. Employees may provide group, family or individual treatment to clients of any age and any developmental, mental, medical, substance abuse, financial or family problem. Employees may have combined investigative and treatment roles or may have separate functions depending on the size and organizational structure of the departments of Social Services.

This is an unpaid internship.

• Thisisfor SPCC Students

Essential Functions

Observe/shadow Case Management, Foster Care and Guardianship Services for children/adults who have beenneglectedand/orabused.

Observe/shadow clinical and social investigation, assessment ofindividualsand family dynamics,and crisisintervention.

Attend school meetingsand Child and FamilyTeam meetings.

Complete referralsfor treatment andplacementin foster care or residential facilities.

Complete collaterals andsupervise visit at ion.

Observe/shadow homevisits atleastonceamonthforeachfosterchildassignedtothecase.

Maintain case data and documentation through various computer programs as needed.

Gainknowledgeof social work principles, techniques and practices and their applications to complex casework,treatment and investigationof abuse orneglectof children and adults.

Gain knowledge of policies and procedures as evidenced by the ability to citetheauthority offederaland statelaw.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct client intake interviewsand assessments toidentifyneeds,strengths, and goals.

• Assist in developing and implementingindividualizedserviceplans incollaboration with clients andsupervisors.

• Provide supportive counseling and crisisinterventionto clients experiencing emotional or situationaldifficulties.

• Assist with case management tasks, including coordinating services,making referralsto communityresources,andadvocating for clients'rightsandneeds.

• Participateininterdisciplinary teammeetings todiscuss client progress, treatment plans, and servicecoordination.

• Maintain accurate and confidential client records in accordance with agency policiesandlegal requirements.

• Conductoutreachactivitiestoraiseawarenessofavailableservices and resources in the community.

• Participatein training sessions,workshops,and otherprofessional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.

• Collaborate with other interns,staff members,and communitypartnersto support a coordinated approach toservicedelivery.

• Completerequireddocumentation andreportsinatimely manner, ensuring compliance with agency standards andregulatoryrequirements.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Currently enrolled in an Associate degree program in social work or a related field.

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations .

• Empathy, compassion, and a nonjudgmental attitude toward individuals facing challenging circumstances .

• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.

• Knowledge of social work principles, theories, and practices.

• Familiarity with community resources and support services .

• Willingness to learn and adapt to the needs of clients and the organization.

• Reliable transportation may be required for outreach and home visits.

• Ability to pass a criminal background check and any other screenings required by the agency.

Licenses or Certifications:

Must have a valid Driver's License and be able to maintain a safe driving history as defined by the Union County Vehicle Use Policy.