Internships

How do I become a WSLB Intern?

WomenShelter is proud to offer students with an opportunity to learn case management and crisis intervention. In the effort to provide the best services possible to its clients WSLB interviews and screens all applicants.

“I had no idea what to expect when I decided to intern at a domestic violence shelter. I knew that working in a non-profit organization for people in need was something important to me, but I didn’t realize how important until I started at WSLB. My time working with families of domestic violence has been a challenging one, but extremely rewarding and has made me into a better, more conscious person of the needs of others. It’s a truly great feeling to be surrounded by individuals who inspire you daily, and I’m so grateful for the experience.”  – Monica, WSLB Intern

“Interning at WSLB is a life changing experience. I believe it has made me a more empathetic and compassionate person. I am definitely more appreciative of my life and more committed to helping others improve the quality of their lives.” – Nicole, WSLB Intern

If you are interested, please apply before your internship semester begins. (For example, if you require hours for the fall semester please apply either the spring semester before or during the summer.) WSLB will make exceptions, but this is on a case-by-case basis and the agency is free to use its discretion.

WSLB Internship Program Requirements:

  1. WSLB internship positions are open exclusively to students (interested applicants must be enrolled in school)
  2. All interns are expected to complete a minimum of 120 hours of service over the course of a full academic year (Sept.-May) or commit to 8 consecutive months
  3. Applicants must have flexible work schedules
  4. 120 hours must be for credit hours (i.e. taken for class credit hours, usually an upper division fieldwork course)*
  5. In addition, the completion of 40 hour domestic violence training is mandatory. WSLB usually conducts its training over the course of five consecutive Fridays from 8am to 5pm; WSLB covers the cost of the training for interns*
  6. Intern must complete a Civil Rights Training (hosted by the County of Los Angeles)*
  7. Intern is responsible to complete and pass a background check
  8. Intern must submit a negative, current within one year TB test
  9. Intern must have a Class C Driver’s License

*These requirements apply to direct service interns only (interns working with clients). Other internship positions, such as Marketing & Communication Interns are not required to complete these items.

If you are interested in becoming an intern please complete the following:


Please email your entire application packet to llopez@womenshelterlb.org, or mail it to WomenShelter of Long Beach, Attn: Liliana Lopez, PO Box 17098, Long Beach, CA 90807. Only complete applications will be reviewed.

  1. Application (Download here) 
  2. Cover Letter
  3. Transcript (May be unofficial)
  4. Writing Sample (required only for the Marketing & Communications Internship Position)

If you have additional questions please email, Nadia Parada at llopez@womenshelterlb.org or 562-437-7233 ext.27.

Please help make a difference in the lives of abused victims and their children. Whether you give your time, financial support, or your voice, it all adds up to helping WSLB reach its mission of eliminating domestic abuse and violence.

WomenShelter of Long Beach prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status in all of its programs, activities, and employment practices.