The Fortune Society Internship Program
About Fortune: The Fortune Society, Inc. (Fortune) has evolved into one of the nation’s preeminent reentry and justice-informed service organizations, providing formerly incarcerated people with the skills and wrap-around services needed to break the cycle of crime and incarceration and to build productive lives in their communities.
Our Mission: The Fortune Society’s mission is to support successful reentry from incarceration and promote alternatives to incarceration, thus strengthening the fabric of our communities.
Opportunity Title: Recovery & Reentry Services Intern
Type: Intern, Unpaid, In-Person
Department: Admissions
Location: 29-76 Northern Boulevard, Long Island City, NY 11101
Tentative Schedule: 15-20 hours per week commitment (sometime Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
Duration: Fall Semester (September-December); Spring (February-May); Summer (June-August)
Application Deadline: Ongoing until opportunity is filled.
Position Summary: The intern supports program staff in providing recovery, reentry, and community-based services to participants. Under supervision, the intern assists with participant engagement, group activities, resource navigation, and administrative tasks while gaining hands-on experience in human services.
Tasks:
- Assist participants in identifying healthy coping skills, wellness strategies, and recovery goals.
- Help participants navigate community resources, including healthcare, social services, housing, employment, and other support systems.
- Provide guidance on accessing public transportation and, when appropriate, accompany participants to appointments or community activities.
- Conduct follow-up communication with participants by phone, text, email, or in person under staff supervision.
- Assist participants with reentry-related needs by connecting them with available services and supports.
- Support the facilitation of recovery-focused groups, including Recovery & Wellness, Anger Management, and Life Skills.
- Prepare materials and handouts for group sessions and help ensure groups begin and end on schedule.
- Assist with participant attendance, sign-in, and navigation of scheduled groups and activities.
- Reinforce group expectations and encourage respectful participation in a safe, supportive environment.
- Assist with participant intakes, orientation, and engagement activities under supervision.
- Help maintain participant records and documentation in the agency’s electronic database (CaseWorthy), including attendance, progress notes, and other required service documentation, as appropriate.
- Participate in community outreach events, recovery celebrations, and agency-sponsored activities.
- Maintain participant confidentiality and adhere to agency policies, procedures, and professional standards.
- Perform other related duties and special projects assigned by the supervisor
Learning Objectives:
- Learn program management skills in the nonprofit sector.
- Develop communication skills necessary to build professional relations with and conduct outreach to participants. Enhance the ability to be an effective team player.
- Increase knowledge of working with justice impacted population.
- Acquire database management skills in a professional setting.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Must be 18+ of age
- Sensitivity and Empathy for Justice-Impacted Populations: Demonstrate a sincere interest in working with individuals impacted by the justice system, approaching each client with compassion, cultural humility, and an understanding of the systemic barriers they face. Candidates must be committed to providing support without bias or judgment, ensuring an inclusive and empowering environment.
- Strong Verbal and Interpersonal Communication Skills: Possess the ability to communicate effectively across diverse populations, adapt communication styles, and build rapport with clients and colleagues.
- Cultural Competency: Understand intersectionality and cultural dynamics is to support Fortune Society’s diverse participant base.
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Professionalism and Adaptability: Manage multiple priorities and exhibit
professionalism in interactions with clients and staff. - Resourcefulness and Problem-Solving Skills: Demonstrate creativity and initiative in addressing client needs per the specific situation.
We seek talented, dedicated individuals from all walks of life who possess a strong commitment to this mission. Relevant personal experience is a plus.