What are the responsibilities and job description for the Intern Direct Support Professional position at Hope House Foundation?
Internship Opportunities at Hope House Foundation (Unpaid)
Hope House Foundation welcomes students and individuals from a wide range of academic programs and interest areas who are seeking an unpaid internship experience. We are open to discussing your individual learning objectives and will work with you to design an educational internship that aligns with your goals, interests, and program requirements.
About Hope House Foundation
Hope House Foundation (HHF) is a local, private nonprofit organization serving more than 125 adults with disabilities across Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake. The individuals we support include people with developmental and intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, mental health support needs, and some physical disabilities. Our services are flexible and person-centered, with a strong focus on choice, independence, and community inclusion.
What an Internship at Hope House Foundation Offers
Flexible Scheduling
Hope House operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, allowing internships to be scheduled around academic, work, or personal commitments. We can accommodate a wide range of availability and hour requirements.
Hands-On Experience
Interns may work alongside experienced professionals within one of our service teams or in other areas of the organization, depending on interests and program needs. This provides real-world exposure to community-based services and nonprofit operations.
Direct Supervision and Mentorship
Interns meet regularly with an assigned supervisor for guidance, feedback, goal setting, and professional development throughout the internship.
Training and Learning Opportunities
Interns receive orientation and ongoing training relevant to their placement. They are also welcome to attend staff trainings and in-services, which may include topics such as behavioral supports, documentation, service planning, and ethical practice. Interns are treated with the same respect and professionalism as staff.
Career Exploration and Future Opportunities
While internships are unpaid, many have led to part-time or full-time employment. Hope House values internal growth and often hires individuals who have completed internships with us, including students from local colleges and universities.
Hope House Foundation is always open to discussing your individual internship objectives and collaborating with you to create a meaningful, educational unpaid internship experience that supports both your learning goals and our mission.
Qualifications:**Qualifications:**
**Required:**
- Willingness to attend Red Cross First Aid training (fully paid by us).
- Willingness to attend Medication Management training (fully paid by us).
- Desire for professional growth and learning.
- Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, including:
- Lifting up to 50 pounds multiple times per shift.
- Ascending and descending stairs several times per shift.
- Pushing and pulling wheelchairs.
- Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods as needed.
- Valid Driver's License.
- Reliable transportation during work hours.
- Satisfactory criminal history check.
**Preferred Qualifications:**
- Experience assisting individuals with activities of daily living.
- Background or education demonstrating reliability and dependability.
- Skills to obtain: Medication Certification, Medicaid Waiver Certification, First Aid/CPR, Mandt training, and other orientation requirements.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Strong decision-making and judgment skills.
- Proficiency in locating and accessing community resources.