Next training:

First week of June 2008, date to be determined.

Location:   HAC Oakland office ("OHAC"), 2272 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland, CA 94612

Interns at HAC should expect a rewarding and challenging experience, requiring commitment, patience and a good sense of humor -- in an always friendly and often hectic office.

Under supervision, interns work directly with mentally disabled and indigent clients as advocates in claims for Social Security disability benefits (SSI/SSDI). HAC's volunteer advocates, with substantial training and continuous attorney supervision, handle all aspects of clients' SSI claims, including client interviews, researching legal issues, writing legal documents and even representing clients in administrative hearings. Additionally, interns will have numerous opportunities to provide referrals and brief legal services, helping people access shelter, medical and psychological care, substance abuse treatment, and other community and legal resources.

During the academic semester, we require a minimum time commitment of 10 hours per week for the duration of the semester. We require this minimum commitment for several reasons: SSI advocacy is emotionally and intellectually challenging and requires regular practice to do well; it takes at least a month of experience to become an effective advocate. Also, developing an ongoing, trusting relationship between advocates and clients is central to our work. For volunteers who cannot commit at least three months, special projects and administrative volunteer positions are sometimes available. Attorneys and trained SSI advocates may be able to volunteer on a case-by-case basis.

Positions are available, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Academic credit may be available from your school. People from underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply.

A day-long training program, for accepted applicants, is held every February, June, and September.