Hybrid Case Aid Intern presso Northwest Youth Services

Position Title: Case Management Intern

Location: Whatcom County

Reports to: Adolescent Shelter Services Assistant Manager

Hours: flexible; approximately 15-18 hours per week

Wage Range: Unpaid, service-learning internship

Duration of Internship: TBD; paid position(s) are not guaranteed at the completion of an internship

Women, people of color, transgender individuals and members of other underrepresented populations are strongly encouraged to apply.

Mission: At Northwest Youth Services, we affirm youth experience and autonomy as we work together to foster collective healing and justice, in order to dismantle the systems of oppression that perpetuate youth homelessness.

Core Values:

Community – We promote interdependence and recognize that everybody needs a community to thrive. We know that we are stronger together.

Justice & Liberation - We believe that it is critical to acknowledge, name, and actively work to dismantle the historic systems and societal structures that fuel crisis and poverty.

Humanity - We work with respect and compassion for each other and believe that everyone deserves to belong: to be safe, heard, and valued.

Accountability – We believe that no one is done learning; as a community we hold each other to a high standard, and work to educate, grow and heal together.

Vision: Guided by our core values and commitment to becoming an Anti-Racist organization, Northwest Youth Services envisions a community in which all young people are seen as catalysts in creating a just and liberated society that supports each of our unique journeys through life.

internship mission

This position contributes to Northwest Youth Services’ (NWYS) success by providing case management for youth program participants within NWYS for minors at our temporary housing facility, the PAD. The PAD is 24 hour/7 days a week, a temporary living facility that provides shelter for unhoused youths in the Bellingham area. Under the direction of the Adolescent Shelter Services Assistant Manager, Case Management Interns are responsible for facilitating and cultivating an environment where youth feel welcomed, are oriented to the services that are provided at the PAD and referred to social and clinical support services when appropriate. Case Management

Internship description: Case Aid Intern

Northwest Youth Services – Case Management Intern |last updated: 03/13/2025

Interns must operate in a collaborative team format that offers group activities, establishes healthy boundaries, help youths cultivate a sense of belonging and purpose, and promote wellness and group participation.

learning objectives

This position contributes to NWYS’s success by supporting and aiding our case management team for the Adolescent Shelter Services (PAD) Pillar. This internship provides hands-on experience in client advocacy, case documentation, and resource coordination, offering valuable insight into social services case management. Additionally, the intern will strengthen their ability to apply ethical and professional standards in working with vulnerable populations while building practical knowledge of case management systems and best practices in youth services. The duties must be completed while ensuring the care and client records remain organized and in compliance with federal, state and local laws and regulations, as well as aligned with agency mission, vision, and values.

core competencies

To perform this job successfully, the individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

Change Agility: Able to embrace needed change; able to provide and implement feedback; effective in the face of ambiguity.

Integrity: Must be honest and take responsibility for actions and enforce healthy boundaries with both youth and staff members.

Positive Impact: Have a passion for NWYS’ mission and vision; display a positive attitude.

Learning Agility: Seeks to improve knowledge, skills, and abilities in related service areas. Accepts and is receptive to supervision, integrates offered by others.

Creativity: Resourceful in finding ways to improve and advocate for change when necessary; fosters creativity in others.

Active Listening: Ability to effectively work independently and in partnership with team members; ability to communicate effectively with youth and others.

Informal Communication: Articulate ideas clearly and organize ideas effectively. Answers phone calls and emails promptly and respectfully.

Organizational Knowledge: Understands operational procedures; demonstrates an in-depth understanding of what the organization does.

Initiative: Proactive; act without being prompted.

Team Player: Effectively partner with people across the organization; is committed to the success of all team members as it supports the vision and mission of the organization.

Sensitivity: Communicates empathy and respect of individuals; ability to be appreciative of diversity.

key responsibilities

• Assist case managers in assessing the needs of adolescent clients and connecting them with appropriate resources.

• Assist case managers in gathering and organizing client information.

• Help coordinate services related to education, mental health, housing, and family support.

• Participate in client assessments, intake processes, and follow-up communications.

• Support adolescents in navigating challenges related to school, family dynamics, and personal development.

Northwest Youth Services – Case Management Intern |last updated: 03/13/2025

• Provide administrative support, including data entry and documentation.

• Conduct research on policies, programs, and best practices related to adolescent case management.

• Maintain and update case files, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.

• Help connect clients with appropriate resources and services.

• Attend team meetings and contribute to case discussions

qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Social Work, Psychology, Healthcare Administration, or a related field.

• Strong organizational and communication skills.

• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data management systems.

• Interest in case management, client advocacy, and social services.

• May require proof of Washington State Driver’s License, driving record, and auto insurance; and

• Requires background checks.

Required within first 30 days of employment (cost of certificates covered by agency for volunteers/interns):

• CPR/First Aid/Bloodborne pathogens certifications required;

• May require food handler’s certification;

• Negative TB test; and

• Full understanding of the CPS reporting requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Human Services, or related field;

• 2-3 years of experience working with at-risk and/or homeless youths;

• Lived experience; and

• Knowledge of issues faced by young people at-risk of/experiencing homelessness.

Northwest Youth Services is an Equal Opportunity employer. Employment is based upon individual qualifications without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, marital status, veteran status, disabilities, political ideology, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.

To apply please visit our website at https://www.nwys.org/employment.