Foster Care - Intern

Since 1971, A New Leaf has been dedicated to its mission of “Helping Families…Changing Lives,” making a positive impact on the lives of over 24,000 people annually in the Phoenix Metropolitan area. A New Leaf is committed to empowering individuals and enriching communities through transformative services. Guided by our core values—Compassion, Passion for Results, Collaboration, Accountability, Integrity, and Conscientiousness—we strive to create meaningful, lasting impacts in the communities we serve. 

Foster Care Support Intern
 

A New Leaf is committed to empowering individuals and enriching communities through transformative services. Our core values—Compassion, Passion for Results, Collaboration, Accountability, Integrity, and Conscientiousness—guide us in creating meaningful, lasting impacts in the communities we serve. 

Location: On-site - Mesa, AZ
Internship Status: Unpaid / For Academic Credit Only
Hours: 10–20 hours per week
Schedule: Flexible; based on academic and program requirements

Position Summary: 

The Foster Care Support Intern will support the Foster Care and In-Home DCS Program by participating in educational experiences related to child welfare services, case management support, and program logistics. Under supervision, the intern will observe and assist in the delivery of services to foster youth and families, gain experience in documentation, and support case coordination efforts. This internship provides exposure to the foster care system while building practical skills aligned with academic and professional goals in social work, psychology, human services, or a related field. 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Understand the structure and function of foster care programs within a nonprofit setting 
2. Gain exposure to child welfare protocols, supervised visitations, and foster family support 
3. Develop professional communication, documentation, and case management skills 
4. Experience collaboration with multidisciplinary teams in a trauma-informed environment 
5. Receive educational feedback to support growth and academic reflection 

Intern Responsibilities:   

Interns may engage in the following supervised learning activities: 

• Observe and assist with client intakes, case documentation, and case file audits 
• Support foster care staff with the organization of donation items, resource binders, and supplies 
• Participate in administrative tasks such as scanning, printing, filing, and preparing packets for home visits 
• Attend staff and case review meetings and take observation notes 
• Accompany staff on supervised visitations and assist with documentation (when appropriate) 
• Assist with coordinating foster parent communications, trainings, or support services 
• Help with tracking and organizing documentation for licensing or compliance 
• Assist with the delivery or pickup of documents, mail, or items between program sites or staff, as directed and under supervision. Interns may not transport items directly to clients or families unless accompanied by staff and approved by the supervisor. 
• Additional tasks may be requested as per program needs 

Eligibility & Requirements 

• Depending on program placement, additional clearances or qualifications may be required. 
• Currently enrolled in a college or university academic program in a field related to the internship position, and seeking academic credit for the internship. 
• Possession of a valid Class One Fingerprint Clearance Card (must be obtained prior to internship start). 
• Able to pass a DES or DCS Central Registry background check (must be completed prior to internship start). 
• Time commitment of 10–20 hours per week, depending on program and academic requirements. 
• Ability to maintain reliable attendance and follow supervisor instructions 
• Must demonstrate strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills 
• Adhere to all organizational policies, including the Code of Conduct, professional standards, and applicable regulations. 
• Comply with mandated reporting requirements under Arizona statute A.R.S. § 13-3620 by reporting any suspected abuse or neglect of a minor to the appropriate authorities. 

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements: 

• Work may be conducted on-site, hybrid, or remote, depending on program needs and intern placement, and must be approved in advance by the assigned supervisor and Human Resources. 
• Interns are not permitted to drive on behalf of the organization without prior written clearance from Human Resources. 
• Ability to sit for extended periods while working on a computer or at a desk. 
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 lbs. for materials or program supplies may be required. 
• Exposure to standard office or shelter equipment such as computers, phones, and printers. 
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities in a dynamic, client-focused environment. 
• Must maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions. 

Additional Clearances (Depending on Program Placement): 

• Drug Screening 
• TB Test 
• Valid Unrestricted Driver’s License 
• Motor Vehicle Driving Record 
• Current Auto Liability Insurance 
• Food Handler Certification 
• CPR/First Aid Certification  

Training and Orientation: (Depending on program placement) 

• NIO (New Intern Orientation) 
• Program Orientation 
• Therapeutic Options Training  
• CPR/First Aid Training 
• On-the-job Training & Job Shadowing 

We appreciate your interest in our organization. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, religion, color, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. 

A New Leaf is an at-will employer. Any offer of employment with A New Leaf is contingent upon a successful consumer report, which includes verification of employment, education, criminal background search, and driving records. 

A New Leaf is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and participates in the E-Verify program.  

BENEFITS PACKAGE: 

All of our employees enjoy the following benefits: direct deposit, competitive pay, accrued sick time, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), an annual team member appreciation event, and an informal yet professional team environment. 

For full-time employees, we also provide the following as part of the total compensation plan: Dental/Vision Coverage, Accrued Sick and Vacation Time, Paid Holidays, Life Insurance, AD&D, Short-Term Disability, 401(K), Tuition Reimbursement, and a Wellness Program. This program has received a Silver Level of excellence in worksite wellness and includes Annual Biometrics, Gym Reimbursements, Wellness Initiatives, Workers Compensation improvements, and much more.