Social Work Intern - Aging Disability Resource Center

Reports to: Program Supervisor

FLSA Status: Unpaid

Dedicate yourself to an Organization and Mission you can be proud of by joining the Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging!

Our Mission: We provide choices for people to live independently in the place they want to call home.

About Us:

Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging (WRAAA) is a private non-profit corporation, organized and designated by the State of Ohio to be the planning, coordinating and administrative agency for federal and state aging programs in Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, and Medina Counties. It is one of twelve Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the state organized with local service provider organizations and the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) to form the state's public aging services network. The network collaborates to create opportunities for older Ohioans to receive needed home and community services and support; and to age successfully in their own homes and communities.

Duration: This is an non-paid internship for the duration of the schools need.


Job Overview:

The Social Work Intern in the Aging and Disability Resource Center will play a vital role in supporting the delivery of high-quality social work services to clients. Under the supervision of licensed social workers and experienced professionals, the BSW intern will gain hands-on experience in engaging clients, caregivers, community organizations and service providers in meeting the long-term service and supports needs of the older adults or persons with disabilities. This internship provides an excellent opportunity for students pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in social work to apply their academic knowledge to practical situations, develop their skills, and make a meaningful contribution to the well-being of individuals and communities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Meet specific learning objectives developed by the college program.
• Conduct telephone or in-person interviews with individuals inquiring about long-term services and supports.
• Connect individuals with appropriate community resources and/or Medicaid Waiver Programs.
• Provide individuals or caregivers with Support Navigation and/or Information and Referrals as appropriate based on their identified needs.
• Provide follow-up to Support Navigation within contractual timeframes.
• Complete all required documentation in designated system or platform within required timeframes.
• Communicate and collaborate with Singe Entry Point (SEP) partners, community partners and stakeholders.
• Advocate for and assist individuals who require extra support to access the necessary services.
• Make immediate referrals to emergency responders when the caller is in a crisis or in an emergency; conduct follow-up to ensure needed assistance is received.
• Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of older adults as a mandated reporter as required by Ohio law when appropriate.
• Potential travel to community and consumer locations within our five-county service area (Geauga, Lake, Cuyahoga, Lorain and Medina) for Resource Center outreach, Community Living Assessments, and community presentations.
• Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of older adults as a mandated reporter as required by Ohio law when appropriate.
• Abide by the professional code of ethics established by licensure, if applicable
• The position's primary duty is to perform work directly related to the successful operation of the Agency. Accordingly, the employee must exercise discretion and independent judgment with respect to matters of significance

Qualifications:

• Enrollment in a bachelor's or master's degree program in Social Work.
• Ability to travel in a multi-county service area. Must have a car available during working hours and the ability to legally drive a car.
• Strong interpersonal and verbal/written communication skills, including the ability to effectively communicate with the disabled and elderly populations and public both in person and by phone.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team to support the agency's mission, vision, strategic plan, goals and management decisions.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with electronic record systems.
• A commitment to supporting diverse and underserved populations.
• A passion for social justice, advocacy, and community engagement.

This position offers an invaluable opportunity for aspiring master's level social workers to gain real-world experience, develop their professional skills, and contribute to the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity, please click "Apply" and complete the application. We look forward to speaking with you.

The Agency is committed to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities to all. Employment decisions are made based on each person's performance, qualifications, and abilities. The Agency does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sex, national origin, age, disability status, health status, genetic information or ancestry, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other protected characteristic.

Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging's Equal Employment Opportunity policy covers all aspects of employment practices, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.