The Department of Juvenile Services offers many opportunities for students to earn college credit, professional experience, and exposure to career opportunities while participating as an agent of change in the lives of troubled youth. By interning with the Department, you will be able to work in a variety of settings with the children on an independent or group level.
Student internship placements typically include working with youth on probation or aftercare, in detention and residential facilities, and those in prevention initiatives. Our interns hail from a vast array of academic disciplines and many are pursuing careers in different areas, such as education, art, law and accounting.
While specific opportunities and locations vary, we currently have internships available for students interested in the following professions:
| Mentor |
Tutor
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| Case Manager Specialist |
Recreational Aide
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| Victim's Advocate |
Legal
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| Accounting |
Information Technology
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| Spiritual Guidance |
Public Relations/Communications
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| Child Advocacy |
Office Assistant
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Many Maryland colleges have established intern partnerships with the Department. Public and private community colleges, colleges and universities include: University of Maryland (College Park, UMBC and Baltimore), Bowie State University, Frostburg State University, Salisbury State University, Morgan State University, Towson University, Hood College, Goucher College, and Prince George's Community College. Colleges and universities will offer a range of credit hours for a professional internship depending on the discipline, number of hours and related class projects. All internships are nonpaid.
The Department can also arrange for non-credit internships or volunteer opportunities depending on skill levels, interests and geographic preferences.
Volunteer and interns must be at least 18 years old. Volunteers who wish to work in facilities must be 21 years old in most cases. Below is the process for becoming a volunteer or intern. If you need more information please contact:
Melissa Alarcon
Community Services Coordinator
Department of Juvenile Services
One Center Plaza
120 West Fayette Street, 2nd Floor
Baltimore, Maryland 21201
410-230-3132
Internships for Credit
Intern applicants must check with the college or university Internship Coordinator to determine internship eligibility, academic, and placement requirements.
Application
An individual Volunteer/ Intern Application can be obtained by downloading it here or by contacting the Community Services Coordinator at 410-230-3132. Electronic applications are preferred. The application needs to be completely filled out, and then can be returned by e-mail, fax or mail. Once an application is received, applicants will be contacted about fingerprinting and to schedule an interview to determine suitability and placement for an internship or volunteer position.
Facility or Office Tour
At any time during the application process, applicants may request a tour of a particular office or facility. This can also occur at the time of the assignment interview (see below).
Reference Check
DJS will contact references. Applicants should make sure all contact information is correct for individuals listed in the application.
Fingerprinting
Applicants will be contacted to schedule an appointment to be fingerprinted free of charge by a DJS employee for required criminal and Child Protective Services background checks. Alternative arrangements for fingerprinting can be made if necessary.
Assignment Interview
Applicants will be contacted by staff who are designated to place or supervise volunteers and interns. An interview will be set up to discuss hours, location, and duties, as well as Department rules, regulations and protocols. NOTE: DJS policy generally does not allow a youth's relative to be a volunteer to that youth or be assigned to a facility where that youth is a resident. Exceptions are subject to the approval of the agency.
Waivers and Other Documentation
Prior to accepting a volunteer or internship position, DJS requires that applicants review and sign documentation that ensures all volunteers and interns will protect the confidentiality of the youth and families served. Volunteers and interns must attest that all information that has been provided in the application and interview is true and accurate. A photocopy of your driver's license, ID card, or other appropriate identification will be needed.
No Stipends, Wages or Remuneration
DJS does not provide wages, stipends, fees, reimbursement or remuneration to any intern or volunteer. Programming that requires a monetary expenditure by DJS for supplies, materials or fees cannot be approved.
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