Overview

Position Summary

The Shelter Services Intern provides vital support to our Safe Havens, Shelter, and Medical Respite programs, contributing to direct client services, administrative coordination, and program development. This position offers a hands-on opportunity to engage with individuals experiencing homelessness and housing instability, while developing core competencies in case management, crisis intervention, and supportive housing navigation.

Intern Responsibilities

Direct Client Support

• Assist Housing Navigators and Case Managers in service coordination, including appointment scheduling and follow-ups
• Support guests with housing applications and other resource access
• Support completion of guest intakes and assessments, including demographic data collection
• Support bed identification and assignment for new arrivals
• Support medication self-administration processes and assist with medication refill calls and scheduling of related medical appointments
• Provide support for life skills programming and contribute to curriculum development

Shelter & Program Operations

• Help coordinate small group trainings and enrichment activities for guests
• Participate in the development and facilitation of guest-centered activities and educational programming
• Provide support at the shelter's pet center (Northampton only), assisting with care coordination for companion animals
• Assist with donation intake, sorting, and organizing deliveries and supplies

Administrative & Communication Support

• Support accurate and timely file management and documentation practices
• Help disseminate information and updates to guests and staff
• Participate in data collection for reporting, funding, and evaluation purposes

Community Engagement & Crisis Response

• Collaborate with area service providers and outreach teams to enhance guest care
• Assist in crisis intervention and de-escalation alongside trained staff
• Attend and participate in community provider meetings and training sessions, as appropriate

Learning Opportunities

• Gain experience in trauma-informed care and housing-first service models
• Learn how to support shelter operations, cross-program coordination, and guest engagement
• Develop professional skills in communication, boundaries, and motivational interviewing
• Explore systemic barriers that impact individuals experiencing homelessness
• Participate in reflective supervision focused on learning goals and professional development
• Receive formal feedback through midterm and final evaluations to support academic credit or career growth

Preferred Qualifications

• Enrolled in a associate-level program (e.g., Social Work, Psychology, Public Health, Human Services, or related field)
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Comfort working in fast-paced, often unpredictable environments
• Commitment to equity, dignity, and the empowerment of marginalized populations

Work Environment

• May require travel between multiple shelter sites
• Involves frequent interaction with guests and pets in a shared, residential environment
• May include light physical activity (e.g., sorting donations, moving supplies)