Court Advocacy Program Intern (Fall Semester 2013)
For 35 years, Doorways for Women and Families has created pathways out of domestic violence and homelessness leading to safe and stable lives. We accomplish this through emergency and long-term housing, holistic support services, and advocacy.
Doorways seeks an intern to play a key role in the service delivery to people involved with civil court proceedings as a result of domestic violence. This position requires a thoughtful, compassionate individual with abilities to listen and communicate effectively, take initiative, multi-task, manage time wisely, think outside of the box, and be a team player. The intern will report to the Court Advocacy Program Coordinator.
Doorways will provide a meaningful, learning experience in which the intern will:
- Gain valuable work experience in a friendly and fun atmosphere
- Be exposed to the challenges that face domestic violence survivors and homeless families
- Hone and demonstrate leadership abilities by working with the Arlington County Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court, Arlington County Victim Witness Program, and Doorways staff
- Develop strong crisis intervention and support skills
- Understand the importance, needs, and challenges of the nonprofit sector
Responsibilities:
- Successfully complete classroom and on-the-job volunteer training
- Provide support to domestic violence survivors during civil and criminal court proceedings
- Assist in completion of court paperwork, documents, and other forms as necessary
- Identify obstacles to survivors navigating the court system and work with Doorways staff to advocate for necessary changes
- Conduct trainings in the community, as needed
- Maintain statistical information and client files in a non-identifying and confidential manner
- Support Doorways staff as needed
- Other duties as assigned by the Court Advocacy Program Coordinator
Qualifications: Applicants must have an interest in as well as a basic understanding of domestic violence issues. Experience or course work in counseling and/or Women's Studies is a plus, but not required. Basic understanding of Microsoft Office programs is necessary. Bilingual applicants (Spanish) preferred and ability to work during business hours is required. Background check is required.
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students with the above experience are invited to apply
Stipend: None.
Length of commitment: Minimum length of commitment is one semester (August through December); two semesters is preferred. Training will occur in August and September.
Weekly hours: Minimum of 15 - 20 hours each week based on a Monday-Friday 8:30 – 4:30 schedule with the possibility of some nights and weekend hours as needed
Worksite: Arlington County Courthouse (metro/bus accessible)
