Child Welfare Internship (Southern Illinois)

Brightpoint provides students with the opportunity to apply their theoretical learning within a practical setting. We aim to offer deeply meaningful and individualized learning experiences for those entering early childhood education and social service fields. Interns are required to be pursuing college credit towards a degree. 

As a leading child and family service organization with more than 20 locations across Illinois, Brightpoint advances the well-being of children by investing in families to disrupt the systemic and multi-generational cycle of racial, social and economic inequality. 

Gain experience in the Child Welfare field. Interns will gain experience working collaboratively within and across programs to ensure a relentless focus on keeping children safe and supporting families, consistent with our agency's Blueprint for Impact, which includes replacing what we currently think of as child welfare services with what we know to be child, family, and community well-being solutions. Interns will work closely with a team of experienced professionals, gaining experience in areas such as case management, family support initiatives, and community outreach efforts. This internship will help you develop a deeper understanding of child welfare policies and practices, while honing your skills in advocacy, communication, and problem-solving.

Learning Opportunities Include: 

• Gain hands-on experience partnering with children and families impacted by the child welfare system.
• Learn about and assist in case management and assessment processes.
• Develop a deeper understanding of social services and community resources.
• Observe and participate in teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Gain insight and experience in the roles and responsibilities of professionals working in child welfare.
• Build foundational skills in relationship-building, documentation, and critical thinking.
• Work in a supportive, supervised environment that prioritizes ethical and trauma-informed practices.
• Participate in regular supervision with assigned supervisor. 
• Complete the following required and recommended trainings: Mandated Reporter, HIPAA, Sexual Harassment Awareness and Prevention, LGBTQIA , Safety, Trauma 101 and ARC 101.
  

Student Qualifications: 

• Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or a closely related field. 
• Currently pursuing credit through and academic or other formalized educational program. 
• Good written and oral communication skills. 
• Basic organizational and time management skills. 
• Works well independently. 

Additional Details: 

• Interns must pass fingerprinting background check including CANTS and LEADS. 
• Brightpoint does not provide compensation to interns.