Social Work Intern

Position Overview

The Social Work Intern at The Friendship Place will gain hands-on experience working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in an Adult Day Training (ADT) setting. This internship is designed to provide meaningful exposure to case management support, program planning, documentation, advocacy, and community resource coordination in a supportive, inclusive environment.

The intern will work closely with staff and participants to support daily programming, enhance quality of life outcomes, and develop practical social work skills aligned with ethical and professional standards.

Key Responsibilities

Direct Support & Participant Engagement ● Assist with daily activities and group programming for adult participants ● Support social, emotional, and life-skills development in a group setting ● Observe and assist with behavior support strategies as appropriate ● Encourage independence, choice-making, and positive social interactions Case Management & Documentation ● Assist with maintaining participant files, notes, and logs (under supervision) ● Observe and support documentation practices aligned with APD standards ● Learn proper confidentiality, HIPAA, and professional documentation protocols ● Participate in staff meetings and case discussions as appropriate Program & Activity Support ● Assist in planning and facilitating recreational, educational, and life-skills activities ● Support themed programming, community outings, and special events ● Help adapt activities to accommodate varying abilities and support needs Advocacy & Community Resources ● Assist with identifying and compiling community resources for participants and families ● Support referrals and follow-up under staff supervision ● Observe advocacy efforts related to services, inclusion, and participant rights Professional Development ● Receive weekly supervision and feedback ● Complete learning objectives required by academic program ● Observe ethical decision-making and interdisciplinary teamwork ● Reflect on experiences through journaling or assignments as required by school Learning Opportunities Interns will gain experience in: ● Adult Day Training programming ● Working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities ● Person-centered planning and strengths-based approaches ● Professional documentation and compliance standards ● Program development and group facilitation ● Ethical practice and professional boundaries Qualifications ● Currently enrolled in a BSW or MSW program (or related human services field) ● Interest in working with adults with developmental or intellectual disabilities ● Strong communication and interpersonal skills ● Compassionate, patient, and professional demeanor ● Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries ● Reliable transportation preferred Physical & Environmental Requirements ● Ability to engage in group activities and assist participants as needed ● Ability to remain on feet for portions of the day ● Occasional lifting or assisting (with accommodations if needed) Supervision & Evaluation ● Intern will receive regular supervision ● Performance evaluations will be completed as required by the academic institution ● Learning objectives will be tailored to meet school requirements