Family Services Incorporated

Crime Victim Support Services

Internship Opportunities and Requirements
Crime Victim Support Services accepts applications for Bachelor Degree Interns from Human Services, Social Work, or Criminal Justice backgrounds. A maximum of two intern placements are accepted per semester (spring, summer and fall). This program is most suitable for individuals who are highly motivated and are flexible, with the ability to adapt to a variety of changing conditions and demands inherent within a crisis intervention program.

OVERVIEW: Interns may provide an array of direct services for victims of crime, including crisis intervention and supportive counseling, hospital and police department accompaniment, court orientation and accompaniment, support group services and information and referrals. In addition, interns may participate in community wide events sponsored by the agency, as well as take advantage of continuing education opportunities while in their field placement. As opportunities arise, interns may choose to conduct public speaking engagements.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, TRAINING AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Student pursuing a Baccalaureate Degree in Social Work, Human Development and Family Studies or a related field from an accredited college or university. Must have satisfactorily completed CVSS Training Program, consisting of 75 hours minimum classroom training, prior to providing direct client services. Pending approval from the college intern supervisor, this training can be taken during the semester prior to the internship. Otherwise, the training will be provided during the first two weeks of the semester.

ABILITIES REQUIRED:

1. Upon completion of training, must possess sound knowledge and understanding of the issues of sexual assault and other violent crime.

2. Must be committed to both helping victims of violence and their family members and to seeking change in societal systems, which now support the continuation of violence.

3. Must be able to express self clearly, both orally and in writing.

4. Must be able to relate to clients, staff, other community agencies and services and the general public in a positive, constructive manner.

5. Must adhere to the agency's confidentiality policy and professional ethical guidelines.

6. Must be able to structure working hours in conjunction with the flexible schedules and core working hours of the program which are geared to client needs and volunteer schedules.

7. Must possess a valid Pennsylvania driver's license, or have access to transportation.

Contact the Crime Victim Support Director at 814-944-3583 for more information.