Fall 2026 Social Services Practicum

About the role

ArchCity Defenders (ACD) is a holistic legal advocacy organization dedicated to combating the criminalization of poverty and state violence, particularly in communities of color. ACD aims to achieve and inspire justice and equitable outcomes for people in the St. Louis region and beyond through civil and criminal legal representation, social services, impact litigation, policy and media advocacy, and community collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intakes and bio-psycho-social assessments and provide holistic, trauma-informed case management for clients
• Work closely with the social services team and legal staff to assist with various client needs
• Strategize with field instructor, attorneys, social workers, and clients regarding goals and case plan
• Maintain proper records and documentation for agency internal and external requirements
• Offer crisis intervention, psychoeducation, affirming and empathetic listening, and support to clients/clients’ families
• Empower clients by working with them to identify barriers and solutions
• Create and maintain an up-to-date client support resource list
• Be self-aware and know when to seek help from supervisor/co-workers
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with community resources to foster effective coordination of services for clients
• Attend any trainings as assigned
• Support the mission of ACD and work with staff to support that mission through social work services
• Any other duties as assigned to help the social services team do its best work

Qualifications

• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Comfort and experience with researching resources and programs for clients
• Detail-oriented approach to working in a team-driven organization
• High capacity for problem-solving and self-direction and the ability to work independently within time constraints
• Flexible and able to respond appropriately to ACD’s changing needs
• Must be able to maintain appropriate client boundaries
• Commitment to racial and economic justice and systems change
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity toward diverse populations; awareness of structures of power, privilege, and oppression
• Knowledge of homelessness and/or the criminal legal system; best practices, particularly around economic gaps and needs; or passion to learn about these issues, systems, and resources

Important Information

• We plan to host Fall 2026 interns and practicum students in person at our new office at 5939 Goodfellow. However, this plan is subject to change to remote work at any time due to public health requirements, work locations and expectations, and school-related policies and procedures.
• We are not able to accept interns or practicum students who seek to simultaneously engage in more than one internship while working with ACD.
• ArchCity Defenders is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with disabilities, women, LGBTQIA+, and gender non-conforming applicants.