Intern (General)

Description

Job Title: Intern - GENERAL

Job Type: Internship (Unpaid)

Job Location: Chicagoland Area

Rincon - Building Spaces, Restoring Communities- Who we are:

What began as a small clinic established by young community leaders on the West Side of Chicago in 1972 has grown into one of the largest providers of high-quality and culturally competent services focusing on counseling and crisis intervention services, substance use prevention and treatment, violence prevention, education, case management, community and family services. We are dedicated to rendering compassionate and effective programs to promote the quality of life by catalyzing to advocate, educate and empower individuals and their families. 

Position Description – What the Role Entails:

• The Intern will support Rincon Family Services through hands-on learning and meaningful participation in organizational activities, projects, and day-to-day operations. Interns may be placed within various departments based on organizational needs, educational background, interests, and available opportunities.
• This position is designed to provide students and emerging professionals with practical experience in a nonprofit community-based organization while developing professional, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Interns will work under the guidance and supervision of assigned staff and may assist with projects, research, administrative activities, community programs, client services, or other department-specific responsibilities.
• Internship assignments may be available across a variety of departments, including Finance, Human Resources, and other administrative functions, depending on organizational needs and intern interests.

Company Culture - Do Our Values Speak to You?

At Rincon, our commitment to mutual respect, inclusivity, and diversity is woven into the structure of all that we do. We value: 

• Dedication- Embodying effective and transparent leadership and quality client care. 
• Education – Preventative programming and clinical services based on industry standards, competence and outreach.
• Accountability – Consistent service delivery, measurable success, and sensible financial management.
• Advocacy – Empowerment, reduction of treatment stigma, and relationship building with partners.
• Compassion – Embracing culturally diverse communities and equality through sensitivity to individual needs.

With these values in mind, we promote a culture that fosters professional development and agency success. Many of our employees span an extended tenure, and we pride ourselves on developing dedicated and supported team members.

Areas of Accountability - What you will be doing:

• Departmental Support
• Assist assigned department with daily activities, projects, and operational needs.
• Support staff with administrative, organizational, research, or program-related tasks.
• Participate in department meetings and activities as appropriate.
• Complete assigned tasks and projects accurately and within established timelines.
• Projects & Special Assignments
• Assist with special projects that support Rincon's programs, services, and organizational goals.
• Conduct research, gather information, and assist with preparing materials or reports
•  Help develop, organize, and maintain department resources and materials.
• Participate in projects that provide opportunities to apply academic knowledge to real-world situations.
• Communication & Collaboration
• Communicate professionally and respectfully with staff, clients, community partners, and other stakeholders as appropriate.
• Work collaboratively with team members and other departments.
• Ask questions, seek guidance, and communicate progress on assigned responsibilities.
• Participate in opportunities to learn about Rincon's programs, services, and organizational operations.
• Administrative & Organizational Support
• Assist with maintaining accurate records, documents, files, and other department materials.
• Assist with data entry, scheduling, correspondence, preparation of materials, and other administrative activities as assigned.
• Follow established procedures and organizational policies.
• Maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive information.
• Professional Development & Learning
• Develop practical workplace skills through hands-on experience and mentorship.
• Apply knowledge and skills gained through academic coursework, training, or previous experience.
• Seek opportunities to learn about different functions within a community-based nonprofit organization.
• Participate in feedback, training, and professional development opportunities as available.
• All other duties as assigned.

Rincon Rewards & Benefits- How we value you:

• Professional Development Opportunities
• Mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities
• Exposure to nonprofit and community-based programs and services
• Opportunities to develop professional and transferable workplace skills

Rincon’s Work Environment – What to expect:

• Interns may work across various Rincon departments and office locations depending on the internship assignment. The work environment may include administrative offices, program areas, community settings, and other locations relevant to the assigned department. Interns will receive guidance and supervision from assigned staff and are expected to maintain a professional, respectful, and collaborative work environment.

Schedule:

• Schedule may vary depending on department and internship placement.

Requirements

The Knowledge and Expertise that Matters Most - What you bring to the Role:

• Currently enrolled in a college, university, graduate program, or other relevant educational program, or recently graduated.
• Area of study may vary depending on the internship placement and department.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse and professional environment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with organizational policies and procedures.
• Previous work, volunteer, academic, or community experience is a plus but not required.
• Specific qualifications may vary depending on the department and internship assignment.

Position Qualifications – What is required to Perform the Role:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Solid technical knowledge and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with various operating systems.
• Excellent understanding of network protocols and hardware components.
• Degree in computer science or a related field (recommended).
• Relevant certification in IT support or equivalent professional experience.