H.E.R.S. (Helping Empower Reentry Services) is dedicated to supporting individuals and families in Monterey County who have Medi-Cal, as well as those transitioning from incarceration back into the community. Our mission is to provide comprehensive services that empower our clients to rebuild their lives and achieve lasting success.
At H.E.R.S. (Helping Empower Reentry Services), we are dedicated to serving the underserved, including individuals and families facing homelessness, unemployment, or limited access to essential resources. Our services extend to those with Medi-Cal, offering support in housing, employment, and healthcare navigation.
Program Information General Description of what students will be doing at this Site:
Students interning at the H.E.R.S. (Helping Empower Reentry Services) site will participate in a diverse range of activities designed to provide practical experience in social services, community support, housing navigation, and program coordination. They will work closely with seasoned staff, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals reentering society and the underserved members of the community, while learning about the essential support services H.E.R.S. provides to facilitate successful transitions.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Case Management Support: - Assist case managers with client intake, assessment, and follow-up, learning how to develop individualized service plans that address housing, employment, and mental health needs. - Participate in case management meetings and observe how case managers advocate for clients and coordinate services with other community agencies, especially for underserved populations.
2. Program Coordination: - Support the planning and execution of various H.E.R.S. programs, such as housing navigation, job readiness workshops, and the diaper distribution program. - Help organize and participate in community outreach events, including tabling at local fairs, distributing informational materials, and engaging with community members to raise awareness about H.E.R.S. services, particularly for those who are underserved.
3. Client Interaction and Advocacy: - Engage directly with clients by answering questions, providing resources, and assisting with service referrals. - Learn how to advocate for clients’ needs in various settings, including housing and employment agencies, and help them navigate complex systems, with a focus on supporting underserved individuals.
4. Community Support and Housing Navigation: - Work with the housing navigation team to assist clients in finding and securing stable housing. This includes helping with applications, understanding eligibility requirements, and connecting clients with housing resources. - Participate in community support initiatives that address the broader needs of clients, such as food assistance, transportation, and access to healthcare services, ensuring that underserved individuals receive the necessary support.
5. Administrative Tasks: - Gain experience in the administrative side of non-profit work by assisting with data entry, maintaining client files, and helping prepare reports for program evaluation. - Assist with marketing and outreach efforts, including social media management, creating flyers, and helping with fundraising initiatives.
6. Community Engagement and Collaboration: - Work alongside community partners and other non-profit organizations to coordinate services, share resources, and collaborate on joint initiatives. - Participate in community meetings and workshops to gain a broader understanding of the issues facing the reentry population, the underserved, and the community's response.
7. Professional Development: - Receive mentorship from H.E.R.S. staff, gaining insights into the field of social services, non-profit management, and community outreach. - Develop skills in communication, organization, problem-solving, and teamwork, which are essential for a career in social services or related fields.
Desired Intern Characteristics:
Empathy and Compassion: - Interns should demonstrate a genuine concern for others, particularly those facing challenging circumstances. The ability to empathize with clients and understand their needs is crucial in providing effective support.
Strong Communication Skills: - Effective communication, both verbal and written, is essential. Interns should be able to clearly articulate ideas, listen actively to clients and colleagues, and convey information in a manner that is respectful and easy to understand.
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity: -Interns should be open-minded and respectful of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. An understanding of the unique challenges faced by underserved populations is important for providing equitable support.
Adaptability and Flexibility: -The ability to adapt to changing situations and remain flexible in response to unexpected challenges is important in the dynamic environment of social services.
Proactive and Self-Motivated: -Interns should be able to take initiative, work independently when needed, and show a strong commitment to their responsibilities. A proactive approach to learning and problem-solving is highly valued.
Organizational and Time Management Skills: -Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage time effectively are critical, especially when balancing multiple tasks and responsibilities. Interns should be able to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
Teamwork and Collaboration: -Interns should be comfortable working as part of a team, collaborating with staff, other interns, and community partners. The ability to contribute positively to a team environment is essential.
Professionalism and Integrity: - A high level of professionalism, including maintaining confidentiality, demonstrating ethical behavior, and showing respect for all clients and colleagues, is expected.
Willingness to Learn and Grow: - Interns should have a strong desire to learn new skills, seek feedback, and grow both personally and professionally. A commitment to ongoing development is important for success in this role.
Passion for Social Justice and Community Service: - A genuine interest in social justice, community service, and helping others is fundamental. Interns should be motivated by a desire to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals and the broader community.
Interprofessional opportunities available for the student: Collaboration with Social Workers, Partnerships with Healthcare, Engagement with Law Enforcement and Legal Professionals, Coordination with Educators and School Administrators, Networking with Community-Based Organizations, Interaction with Public Health Officials, Collaboration with Non-Profit Management Professionals, Engagement with Housing Authorities and Navigators, and Mentorship from Experienced Case Managers.
Can be part of our monthly all-in-staff meetings, as well as weekly check-ins with interns.
Concentration:
- Social Work
- Community Health
- Public Administration/ Non-profit Management
Format of Service: In-Person Service
Type of Service: Direct Client Service
The following CHHS Competencies that the student will be exposed to:
- Collaboration
- Conflic Resolution, Negotiation, & Mediation
- Cross Cultural Competency
- Knowledge of Health & Human Services (SW or CH)
- Leadership
- Personal & Professional Communication
- Professional Development