Program Information General Description of what students will be doing at this Site:
The Student Intern will play a vital role in supporting Care and Basic Needs' programs, ensuring that students have access to essential resources such as food, hygiene products, and financial assistance. Interns will assist with food recovery efforts, provide direct student support, and help facilitate various initiatives aimed at addressing basic needs. This role offers hands-on experience in community outreach, case management, and program coordination while fostering teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.
This internship is an excellent opportunity for students interested in social services, public health, community engagement, and nonprofit work, providing valuable hands-on experience in a supportive and mission-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maintain, organize, and restock supplies in the Basic Needs Hub while ensuring a clean, welcoming environment and delivering exceptional customer service to students and visitors.
- Assist staff in food recovery initiatives, including coordinating donation pickups, distributing food, and upholding all Food Safety Standards to ensure proper storage and handling.
- Support and implement key student resource programs, such as the Parenting Otter Program, Diaper Program, Produce Truck, and Emergency Food Box Program, by facilitating operations and engaging with participants.
- Guide students through the BenefitsCal application process, providing direct assistance to help them secure CalFresh benefits and access essential resources.
- Assist with student case management, supporting individuals that have been referred to the Care Team, tracking support services, and ensuring students receive the appropriate resources and follow-up assistance.
Desired Intern Characteristics:
Care and Basic Needs seek student interns who demonstrate a combination of professional skills, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn. The most desirable characteristics include:
1. Strong Work Ethic – Taking initiative, meeting deadlines, and demonstrating dedication to assigned tasks.
2. Adaptability & Willingness to Learn– Being open to feedback, eager to gain new skills, and able to adjust to different tasks and environments.
3. Effective Communication– Clearly expressing ideas, actively listening, and professionally interacting with colleagues, supervisors, and clients.
4. Professionalism – Showing responsibility, punctuality, and respect in workplace interactions and conduct.
5. Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking– Analyzing situations, identifying solutions, and thinking creatively to overcome challenges.
6. Teamwork & Collaboration – Working well with others, contributing to group projects, and building positive workplace relationships.
7. Leadership Potential– Demonstrating initiative, accountability, and the ability to take ownership of tasks and projects.
8. Attention to Detail – Ensuring accuracy, following instructions carefully, and producing high-quality work.
9. Technical & Digital Literacy– Having proficiency in Google software, digital tools, or specialized skills relevant to the field.
10. Enthusiasm & Passion – Showing interest in the work, displaying a positive attitude, and being engaged in learning opportunities.
Special Considerations:
• Spanish speakers
• Retail or service industry experience
Interprofessional opportunities available for the student:
Interning with Care and Basic Needs offers students opportunities aligned with the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) competencies, preparing them for future careers. These roles help students develop essential skills in collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership while working across various disciplines.
Interprofessional Opportunities Aligned with NACE Competencies:
1. Career & Self-Development – Interns will explore different career paths, receive mentorship, and build professional relationships that contribute to their long-term growth and success.
2. Communication– Whether assisting students, faculty, or staff, interns will strengthen verbal and written communication skills, ensuring students can convey ideas clearly across diverse audiences.
3. Critical Thinking – Interns will analyze situations, solve problems, and make informed decisions in fast-paced environments, enhancing their ability to think critically.
4. Equity & Inclusion – Interns will work with diverse campus communities that foster cultural awareness and inclusivity, allowing students to collaborate effectively with individuals from different backgrounds.
5. Leadership – Interns will develop leadership skills by guiding teams, making decisions, and managing responsibilities.
6. Professionalism– Interns gain firsthand experience in workplace expectations, time management, and ethical decision-making, preparing them for future professional roles.
7. Teamwork – Care and Basic Needs emphasize collaboration with peers, faculty, and staff, building students’ ability to work in diverse teams and contribute to shared goals.
8. Technology – Interns will be mentored with industry-related software, digital communication tools, and data management systems.
Concentration:
- Social Work
- Community Health
Format of Service: In-Person Service
Type of Service:
- Direct Client Service
- Indirect Service
The following CHHS Competencies that the student will be exposed to:
- Collaboration
- Conflic Resolution, Negotiation, & Mediation
- Cross Cultural Competency
- Financial management
- Information Management
- Knowledge of Health & Human Services (SW or CH)
- Leadership
- Personal & Professional Communication
- Professional Development
The Care and Basic Needs team meet as a department weekly to discuss events, projects, and case management. The meeting times will be determined. Interns will need to met with supervisor weekly to discuss their work. Additional trainings include, but are not limited to, financial literacy, mental health and first aid, QPR, food safety, leadership, and case management,