Navigation Access Office Specialist Intern

Navigation Access Office Specialist Intern (Learning Focus) Hmong American Partnership (HAP) is a social service and community development organization whose mission is to empower the community to embrace the strengths of our cultures while achieving our potential. HAP accomplishes its mission by: Improving the lives of individuals and families in our diverse communities by providing culturally sensitive social services. Strengthening neighborhoods by providing housing, community, and economic development opportunities. Promoting the rich heritage of our ethnic communities. HAP's vision is to reach out to the world with profound social, economic, and educational transformation. Primary Function of the Position This internship opportunity is designed solely for educational, civic, and charitable purposes. It is intended to provide individuals with exposure to nonprofit community-based work, administrative processes, and culturally responsive service environments. This role does not replace, displace, or supplement paid staff, and volunteers are not expected to meet productivity standards or independently perform essential organizational functions. All activities are conducted under supervision and are structured to support learning, observation, and skill development. This position is designed as a learning opportunity and is not intended to replace or displace paid staff. The Navigation Access (NA) Office Specialist Intern will work under close supervision and receive training, guidance, and ongoing feedback while gaining exposure to community-based administrative systems, culturally responsive service delivery, and public benefits navigation. Intern Activities (Learning-Oriented) Observe and assist Community Impact staff with pre-screening activities related to MNsure, SNAP, housing assistance, and other services to learn eligibility and referral processes Observe scheduling workflows and assist staff with appointment coordination as a learning exercise Support staff by drafting or organizing responses to general inquiries (emails or voicemails) with review and approval by a supervisor Learn confidentiality, data privacy, and document-handling practices by assisting with filing, mail preparation, and record organization Provide general information about HAP programs with staff present or available for guidance Assist with data entry and administrative projects for educational purposes Participate in training sessions, job shadowing, and guided administrative projects Complete other learning-focused tasks as assigned, consistent with volunteer objectives Supervision & Support Interns will receive orientation, training, and ongoing guidance from Community Impact leadership. Regular check-ins will be provided to ensure a positive, supportive learning experience. All participant-facing activities occur with appropriate oversight. Desired Skills and Interests Interest in nonprofit, community-based, or social service work Customer service or scheduling exposure Strong verbal and written communication skills Basic computer and office technology familiarity Organizational and problem-solving skills Experience or interest in working with diverse communities Bilingual in Hmong and/or Karen and English (preferred, not required) Interest in learning about MNsure, SNAP, housing, and public-benefit systems Learning Outcomes Understand the role of Community Impact programs within a culturally responsive nonprofit organization Gain exposure to MNsure, SNAP, and housing assistance referral systems Develop professional communication and administrative skills Learn best practices related to confidentiality, data management, and community engagement service Essential Functions Sit or stand for extended periods in an office environment Use standard office equipment (computer, phone, copier) Tolerate moderate office noise levels Move throughout the office to access materials Lift or move items up to 20 pounds occasionally Travel occasionally to other HAP locations or community events (transportation required) Reasonable accommodations will be made when possible. HAP is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Our organization will not discriminate against or harass any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, familial status, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or status with regard to public assistance. Individuals with disabilities in need of accommodation should contact us at .

Created: 2026-03-04