Internship

About the Role

This is an unpaid internship supporting the CCS Moline Foster Care Community Engagement Practicum Student role at Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI). It provides hands-on experience in child welfare services, permanency planning, family finding practices, and case support activities, offering exposure to the field of social work and community services. The intern will assist the Family Finding Specialist with planning and coordinating events to strengthen connections and positive outcomes for children and families, ensuring permanency activities and family engagement practices align with LSSI's mission, values, and goals.

Internship Details

• For Spring 2027 Semester Only
• Placement: Fall, Spring, Summer
• Hours: 12-20 hours a week
• Requires a criminal and CANTS (DCFS) background check.
• Application Deadlines:
• Fall Semester: April 30
• Spring Semester: September 30
• Summer Semester: January 31
• Must be available for group supervision, team meetings, and agency trainings.
• Must be able to work weekends or evenings, as needed for events.
• Must provide proof of current car insurance.
• Must feel comfortable with in-home family visits.
• Must demonstrate initiative, professionalism, and willingness to learn.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, organizing, and coordinating fundraising and community engagement events.
• Support efforts to ensure events align with LSSI’s mission, values, and organizational priorities.
• Assist with event logistics including scheduling, vendor coordination, space preparation, and volunteer coordination.
• Help develop event materials such as invitations, promotional materials, and information resources.
• Assist with donor and community outreach efforts.
• Track event-related data including attendance, donations, sponsorships, and community participation.
• Assist with maintaining accurate records and documentation related to fundraising activities and event outcomes.
• Support post-event follow-up activities including donor acknowledgment, reporting, and evaluation.
• Participate in team meetings and supervision to review progress and receive guidance.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with all organizational policies and procedures.

Learning Opportunities

• Gain hands-on experience in nonprofit event planning and fundraising.
• Learn about donor engagement, community outreach, and nonprofit development strategies.
• Develop skills in project management, event coordination, and collaborative planning.
• Understand how fundraising efforts support programs serving children and families.
• Learn how nonprofit organizations ensure events and fundraising activities align with mission, values, and compliance requirements.

Qualifications

• Currently 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 appropriately.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and documentation systems preferred.
• Interest in working with children and families in a supportive setting.

Organization And Mission Values

LSSI 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.