City of Tacoma Neighborhood and Community Services Internship

Supervisor: Dates: Duration: Compensation: To Apply: Colin DeForrest Spring and Fall Quarters 2013 through Spring 2014 Four quarters, up to 15 hours per week (excludes Summer 2013) $2,500 to $3,500 per quarter, depending on qualifications Provide resume and cover letter (addressed to Colin DeForrest, Homeless Services Manager) describing personal goals and interest in this position with resume to Julia Smith (jbsmith@uw.edu) by March 18, 2013.

Purpose

To provide support to the Tacoma/ Pierce County Coalition to End Homelessness. This position will also assist with the delivery of a variety of homeless services provided to City residents. This parttime position of approximately 15 hours per week will provide staff support to the Coalition, and assist in other homeless services within the City of Tacoma (http://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?nid=642). The Coalition is a group of over 50 organizations and individuals that work in the community and advocate for people experiencing homelessness in Pierce County.
Qualifications

Students must be currently enrolled at the University of Washington Tacoma, working toward a degree in in social work. Preference will be given to 1st generation college students, but it is not a requirement. Other qualifications include: Computer skills in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook and Excel) Independently perform Internet research for needed information. Ability to take clear and concise notes and prepare meeting agendas Strong English grammar and ability to write clearly Willingness to participate in community events and meetings Ability to respect others and be a team player Basic customer service and telephone skills This position will require a background check prior to appointment. A valid driver's license is required at time of appointment.
Educational Benefits

Educational benefits resulting from this position include: Team work, enhanced computer skills, public speaking skills and employability skills. Greater understanding of the causes of homelessness and effective practices to address these 1

causes. Extensive knowledge of the Pierce County homeless system and resources. Increased understanding of planning and systems change concepts and implementation. This position will also involve interaction with public and private agencies and organizations, faith-based community and residents.

Essential Duties

General tasks for this internship includes: Participating in the implementation of major annual events including Project Homeless Connect, the Homeless Survey and Homeless Awareness Week. This may include a variety of tasks, including advertising, collecting donations, contacting the media, coordinating volunteers, booking locations and more. Provide regular communication, distribution and collection of information to assist shelter providers, community agencies and other interested parties. Meet monthly with the Steering Committee of the Coalition to coordinate the activities and direction of Coalition. Prepare and distribute Coalition meeting agendas and minutes monthly. Maintain updated membership and contact lists. Publish and distribute a bi-weekly newsletter and the quarterly newsletter on Coalition activities, programs and member announcements. Maintain the Coalition web-site. Participate in multiple events and homeless services activities in Tacoma-Pierce County Participate in annual GIS/GPS mapping of homeless encampments in Tacoma. Opportunities available to work directly with people experiencing homelessness through shortterm projects with local service providers. Performs other directly related duties consistent with the role and function of the classification.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

This position is located in an office setting in the Neighborhoods and Community Services Department, Tacoma Municipal Building, 747 Market Street, 8th Floor. This position requires periods of sitting, standing and phone and computer work.