Direct Service Specialist Intern- Unpaid

Job Details Job Location: Lakeshore Office - Detroit, MI 48202 Job Category: Empowerment & Integration Mission In our pursuit to eliminate poverty, Wayne Metro empowers people and communities to be strong, healthy, and thriving. Vision We envision thriving communities where all people have hope and opportunities to realize their full potential. Internship Description Wayne Metro seeks a motivated and detail-oriented individual with an interest in community services and public assistance programs. This internship provides hands‑on experience supporting utility assistance and intake operations, including the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP), Water Assistance Programs, Weatherization (Wx) Intake, and Resident Services. Responsibilities Assist with client intake for utility assistance programs, including MEAP, Water Assistance, Weatherization (Wx), and Resident Services Support eligibility screening by reviewing applications and verifying required documentation Enter and update client data accurately in agency databases (e.g., EmpowOR) Assist with processing applications and tracking case statuses Communicate with clients via phone, email, or in‑person to obtain missing information and provide program updates Help coordinate referrals to internal programs (e.g., Wx, conservation services) and external community resources Maintain organized digital and physical client files in compliance with program guidelines Support outreach efforts by assisting with intake events, prescreening activities, and community engagement initiatives Collaborate with program staff to ensure timely and accurate service delivery Adhere to confidentiality standards and handle sensitive client information with discretion Assist with basic reporting, data tracking, and program performance monitoring as needed Participate in team meetings, trainings, and continuous improvement activities Physical Requirements The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This job operates in a professional office environment with a usually quiet noise level. This is largely a sedentary role and the employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, frequently use hands and to talk or hear. Qualifications Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Social Work, Public Administration, Human Services, Nonprofit Management, or a related field Strong interest in community action programs, utility assistance, and serving low‑income populations Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment Strong communication skills, both written and verbal Comfortable interacting with diverse populations in a professional and empathetic manner Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and/or Google Workspace Experience with data entry or case management systems is a plus Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately Self‑motivated with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team Bilingual (preferred but not required) Minimum Qualifications High school diploma/general education degree (GED) OR a combination of education and experience that is similarly equivalent Pass Criminal Background check & Drug Screening Ability to work a hybrid schedule Have experience in Excel and Google Space Minimum Competencies Strong verbal and written communication skills Professionalism in appearance, tact, punctuality, and dependability Good interpersonal and professional skills, including but not limited to professional appearance, tact, punctuality, and dependability Perform work in a manner that upholds Wayne Metro policies, procedures, and mission Equal Opportunity Statement Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency is an Equal Opportunity Employer. EOE/M/F/D/V #J-18808-Ljbffr Wayne-Metropolitan Community Action Agency