Undergraduate InternshipAt — Casa Youth Shelter

POSITION DESCRIPTION 

Undergraduate Fieldwork students work under the supervision of the on-duty Youth Supervisors. Fieldworkers are indirectly responsible for the day-to-day residential operations of Casa Youth Shelter. 
 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

Participate in the recording of pertinent information regarding clients which would be helpful to counselors and other Youth Supervisors. 

Participate in the performance of emergency pre-intake phone interviews and crisis calls as required, as well as perform intakes when needed. 

Participation in the supervision of daily activities of clients in residence and provide structure. 

Help  maintain and enforce house rules in a firm, fair, and compassionate manner. 

Help to prepare meals in accordance with the meal schedule, and help maintain cleanliness of the shelter.  

Provide assistance to clients, empathic listening, therapeutic recreation, and coping skills. 

Help to monitor resident whereabouts and behavior, including logging where they are at 4- 15 minutes. 

Provide support to community outreach by attending at least one event. All outreach events/activities are coordinated by the Case Manager and/or Chief Operations Director.  
 

1. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 

1. Ability to relate well with adolescents and handle emergencies calmly with some College or equivalent experience. 

1. Must be currently enrolled in a fieldwork class in the field of human/social services or related field unless otherwise approved by the Chief Operations Director.  

1. Current California driver’s license, automobile liability insurance, negative TB Test 

1. Ability to pass background check. Must not have any arrests or convictions that would prevent the ability to pass a background check.  

Training:

General Orientation, shadowing, weekly group supervision, one-one meetings, and ability to patriciate in monthly staff meetings.

Learning Outcome:

Learning Outcomes for Undergraduate Internship at a Casa Youth Shelter

1. Crisis Call Management
Demonstrate proficiency in handling crisis calls.
Students will be able to assess the severity of crises, provide immediate support, and determine the appropriate response or referral.
Students will develop active listening and empathy skills to effectively communicate with individuals in crisis
2. Intake Process
Conduct comprehensive intakes for new residents.
Students will accurately gather and record relevant information during the intake process.
Students will establish a rapport with new residents to ensure a smooth transition into the shelter.
3. Behavior Redirection
Implement behavior redirection techniques.
Students will apply positive reinforcement strategies to encourage desired behaviors.
Students will utilize conflict resolution skills to address and redirect negative behaviors.
4. De-escalation Techniques
Employ de-escalation techniques to manage tense situations.
Students will identify triggers and warning signs of escalating behavior.
Students will effectively use verbal and non-verbal communication techniques to de-escalate potentially volatile situations.
5. Suspected Child Abuse Reporting
Recognize and report suspected child abuse.
Students will understand the legal and ethical responsibilities related to reporting suspected child abuse.
Students will accurately document and report signs of abuse in accordance with shelter policies and state regulations.
6. Professional Development
Develop professional skills and ethical standards.
Students will demonstrate professionalism in interactions with residents, staff, and external agencies.
Students will reflect on their experiences to identify personal strengths and areas for growth in the field of social work or human services.
7. Team Collaboration
Collaborate effectively with shelter staff and other interns.
Students will contribute to team meetings and case discussions with constructive input.
Students will demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
8. Documentation and Record-Keeping
Maintain accurate and confidential records.
Students will keep detailed and accurate records of all interactions, interventions, and observations.
Students will understand the importance of confidentiality and data protection in maintaining residents' privacy.

These learning outcomes aim to ensure that students gain practical skills, develop professional competence, and understand the complexities of working in a youth shelter environment.