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.

Compensation

$1000 stipend upon successful completion. *Please note: since this position is eligible to receive a stipend, candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

Time Commitment

12-16 hours per week (or variable for credit) during Summer Quarter 2026 (6/23/26-8/21/26). Internship is set to begin the first week starting of the Summer Quarter, ending August 21st, 2026.

Internship Shadowing and Tasks Description

• 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: Liminal Coffee, 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.

Benefits

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.

Preferred Skills

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

Organizational Relationships

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

Qualifications

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 employment afterwards. In recognition of the intern’s efforts and costs, LMM is pleased to offer a $1,000 stipend payment paid in a lump sum following the successful completion of the internship. Interns, in accordance with LMM policies, may be subject to a pre-volunteer background check.

Physical Demands & Environmental Conditions

With or without reasonable accommodation. Internship candidates are encouraged to reach out to HR via hr@thelighthousemission.org if they require accommodation during the application or volunteer process. Intermittent high stress environment Standing 40%; walking 30%; sitting 30%; ability to walk up and down stairs Medium to heavy lifting, up to 35 lbs Possible exposure to a variety of illnesses

EEO (Equal Opportunity Employer)

Lighthouse Mission Ministries is both an equal-opportunity employer and a faith-based religious organization. Subject to all applicable state and federal laws, Lighthouse Mission Ministries does not discriminate in its employment practices or in the administration and dissemination of its programs and services. Pursuant to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 702 (42 U.S.C. 2000e I(a)), Lighthouse Mission Ministries has the right to, and does, hire only candidates for employment who agree with the Lighthouse Mission Ministries Statement of Faith. Volunteers and Interns are not required to agree with the Statement of Faith.