Shelter Operations Internship

Do you share a passion for helping our community and learning what the Mission is all about? Well, you can certainly do this while gaining valuable volunteer experience with a professional network!

Lighthouse Mission Ministries is a leading non‑profit organization dedicated to providing emergency shelter, support, and resources to individuals and families experiencing homelessness in our community. We strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where those in need can access essential services and begin their journey toward stability and self‑sufficiency.

Lighthouse Mission Ministries is seeking a dedicated and compassionate student intern to volunteer with our team at the Mission's Enhanced Shelter. The primary purpose of this internship is direct relational service with residents participating in shelter programming. As an intern, you will have the opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in direct service provision, community outreach, and program support within a dynamic and impactful organization.

To be individually determined upon intern’s availability, however, there will be an expected minimum of 10‑12 hours per week (or variable for credit) during Spring Quarter 2026.

• Help provide compassionate support and assistance to shelter residents, including intake procedures, meal distribution, and addressing the immediate needs of guests.
• Help with administrative tasks including: answering phones, sorting mail, assisting residents at the front desk, organizing supplies, and other duties as assigned.
• Build healthy relationships with residents while encouraging them to pursue new goals.
• Help with referrals to community resources, Lighthouse Mission Services, researching resources as needed.
• Help manage/update the employment board and resources board.
• Help assist in maintaining a clean and organized shelter facility, including common areas, sleeping quarters, and restrooms.
• Collaborate with shelter staff to implement programs and activities aimed at enhancing the well‑being and empowerment of residents including but not limited to: assisting with check‑ins, playing games with residents, serving meals, day room and outside visitation, and coordinating shower and laundry services.
• Help conduct outreach and engage with community partners to raise awareness about our services and resources available to individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Opportunity for volunteering with additional projects/concentrations:
  Help manage the donation‑based coffee shop, Café Renovaré, coordinating a collaborative group art project, or volunteer leading a Bible study or class.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge in the field of homelessness services.
• Specific tasks of the internship can be adapted to meet student needs and areas of interest.

• Gain valuable hands‑on experience in the field of homelessness services.
• Develop skills in communication, crisis intervention, and community outreach.
• Receive mentorship and support from experienced professionals in the field.
• Make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
• Flexible scheduling options available to accommodate academic commitments.

• A willingness to serve and be in relationship with people experiencing homelessness.
• A positive attitude, flexibility, and active participation in service.
• Professional demeanor with a willingness to learn professional boundaries.

Intern will be supervised by the Director of Shelter Operations. Intern will volunteer alongside staff and other volunteers in Crisis and Outreach Services.

This internship opportunity is open to any current college/university student seeking experience within their field of study and/or for academic credit hours (Speak with your University Department/College for qualification). Preference for candidates with an area of study and/or personal passion for social services. The internship is not an offer of employment—either during the course of the internship or a promise of…