Service Coordinator Internship Program

Objective: This internship provides hands-on experience in service coordination within a regional center, preparing interns for careers in social or human services. Interns will support Service Coordinators in case management, client services, and administrative tasks. They will gain knowledge in working with individuals with developmental disabilities, learn about the regional center system, and collaborate with other agencies. This program offers a pathway to full-time Service Coordinator positions at South Central Los Angeles Regional Center (SCLARC) for eligible candidates after completing their  degree requirements.

Program Overview:

• Position Title: Service Coordinator Intern
• Location: South Central Los Angeles Regional Center
• Duration: Ongoing, flexible start and end dates
• Commitment: 15-20 hours/week (Monday–Saturday), up to 12 months
• Stipend: $400 per week 
• Benefits: No fringe benefits
• Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Sociology, or related fields. *Undergraduate students shall be within 12 months of completing requirements to earn a bachelor’s degree in fields of study noted above.

Key Responsibilities:

• Case Management: Assist with client Individual Program Plans (IPP), attend meetings, and coordinate services.
• Documentation: Develop written IPP; maintain accurate client records and progress reports.
• Communication: Liaise with clients, families, service providers, and community agencies.
• Resource Coordination: Research and provide community resource information.
• Administrative Support: Schedule appointments, maintain case files, and assist with office tasks.
• Training & Development: Participate in training sessions and workshops.
• Additional Duties: Assist with document development, data entry, and meeting observations.

Interns will receive the necessary equipment (laptop and phone) and participate in staff training (space permitting).

Qualifications:

• Education: Minimum Bachelor’s degree (or in-progress, within 12 months of completing requirements to earn a bachelor’s degree) in a relevant field.
• Skills: Strong communication, organizational, and time-management skills. Familiarity with Microsoft Office and data management systems preferred.
• Characteristics: Compassionate, motivated, reliable, and eager to learn.
• Other Requirements: Must be available 15-20 hours/week, have access to a vehicle, valid driver’s license, and insurance. Must be able to pass a background check and complete required training.

Supervision & Mentorship:

• Supervisor: Interns report to a Program Manager for supervision and feedback on performance.
• Mentorship: Each intern is paired with a Team Leader and experienced Service Coordinator for guidance.
• Preceptor: A qualified Preceptor will ensure the intern’s work aligns with the Service Coordinator position core competencies and their degree program requirements.

Program Timeline:

• Orientation: Interns will begin with an orientation on policies, procedures, and client services.
• Ongoing Assignments: Interns will receive tasks based on departmental and unit needs, with opportunities for increased responsibility.
• Performance Reviews: Interns will have quarterly reviews to assess progress and skills development.

Recruitment & Selection:

• Application: Submit a resume, cover letter, and copy of transcript/ degree.
• Interview: Selected candidates will be interviewed to assess fit and motivation for the internship opportunity.
• Selection: Interns are chosen based on academic qualifications, skills, and interest in social services.

Program Evaluation:

• Interns will provide feedback on their experience, which will be used to improve the program.

Conclusion: This internship offers real-world experience in service coordination, mentorship, and career development, preparing interns for future employment opportunities as a regional center Service Coordinator or other social services role.