Internship, CCS Moline Foster Care Child Welfare Caseworker Assistant

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI), is a leading not-for-profit organization providing healing, justice and wholeness to people and communities. For over 150 years, LSSI has made a difference in the lives of children and families, and we're still a strong, viable presence in the State of Illinois, continuing that commitment to making a difference.This is an unpaid internship. We are seeking a motivated intern to support our Foster Care Program alongside Child Welfare Specialist (CWS); the program is designed to promote the well-being and safety of children and families. This internship offers hands-on experience in case management, service coordination, and client advocacy, while providing meaningful exposure to the field of social work and human services.Internship Details - For Spring 207 Semester OnlyFall, Spring, Summer placement 12-20 hours a weekMust pass a criminal and CANTS (DCFS) background checkDue to criminal background check and CANTS processing timelines, internship application deadlines are established to allow adequate time for clearance prior to the start of placement: Fall Semester Application Deadline: April 30Spring Semester Application Deadline: September 30Summer Semester Application Deadline: January 31Must be available for group supervision, team meetings, and agency trainingsMust be able to work one evening per week, as neededMust provide proof of current car insuranceMust feel comfortable with in home family visitsMust demonstrate initiative, professionalism, and willingness to learnKey ResponsibilitiesAssisting with case management activities, including documentation, data entry, and report preparationSupporting the assessment of family needs and service planning processesHelping connect families to community resources and verifying service participationParticipating in case staffing’s, supervision, and Child and Family Team Meetings (CFTMs)Collaborating with schools, healthcare providers, and service agencies to promote positive outcomes for childrenSupporting case workers in monitoring child safety, well-being, and service engagementAssisting with safety planning and advocacy efforts with community or governmental systemsMaintaining confidentiality and adhering to all agency policy and proceduresLearning OpportunitiesExposure to strength-based, trauma-informed case management practicesParticipation in assessment, service planning, and intervention processesExperience with multidisciplinary collaboration across service systemsUnderstanding compliance with state regulations, COA standards, and agency policiesDevelopment of professional documentation, communication, and advocacy skillsQualificationsCurrently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or related field.Strong interpersonal and communication skills.Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with appropriatelyBasic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and documentation systems preferredInterest in working with children and families in a supportive setting.Agency And Mission ValuesOur program is committed to supporting children and families through compassionate, strength-based, and culturally responsive services that promote safety, permanency, and well-being. Interns are expected to uphold agency values of professionalism, respect, integrity, inclusion, and service excellence throughout their placement experience.We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, pregnancy, any other characteristic protected by law.