This time of year, I am interviewing prospective interns who want to work with children and families in preparation for a career in Social Work or Human Services. What does it take to develop the skills and competencies to work with abused and neglected children and with families whose lives are in upheaval? It takes a lot!
The general characteristics I tend to look for include a willingness to be open to the experiences others are going through, have compassion, have understanding and be respectful of cultural differences. I enjoy students who are eager to learn, ask questions, and enthusiastic about helping others. I think working in Human Services requires flexibility and resilience to stress. The ability to listen and observe others while remaining in the here and now is essential. Since it is an honor to have people let you into the most sensitive aspects of their lives and hear their stories, one must operate with an appreciation of human strength and the capacity for change. Recognizing that others have been impacted by severe loss and grief is important. Possessing the ability to learn from life’s experiences is helpful.
Candidates for practice and intern experiences in public service agencies need to have some of the very same qualities we look for in potential foster and adoption families. If you possess these abilities, please contact us to discuss a role in helping others.
Pam Jordan is the Executive Director of Inner Circle Foster Care and Adoption Services. For more information, our numbers are 818-988-6300 in Van Nuys and 661-575-9190 in Palmdale. We look forward to hearing from you.