Aging and Disability Services (ADS) operates as the designated Area Agency on Aging for Seattle and King County.

ADS, a division of the Seattle Human Services Department, works in partnership with King County to coordinate and advocate for a comprehensive service delivery system for older adults, family caregivers and people with disabilities in King County. ADS is funded by federal, state, and city sources to provide an extensive range of programs and services, including adult day services, caregiver support, case management, Community Living Connections, elder abuse prevention, health maintenance, health promotion, legal services, nutrition services, senior centers, and transportation.

The ADS Planning Unit is responsible for leading investment processes, new program development and project management, supporting two volunteer advisory boards, hosting events and forums, and representing the agency on regional workgroups and committees.

The Planning Unit hosts students who are interested in social work planning and administration, social justice, and serving vulnerable older adults.

While the Planning Unit placement is primarily a mezzo/macro placement, students have opportunities to partner with staff during in person screenings and assessments with clients in the ADS Care Coordination Program. Interns can engage in case consults or debriefs with staff including observations of client needs, strengths, challenges, and discussion of intervention strategies. Students can receive training in assessment tools and evidence-based approaches. The Planning Unit intern may also participate in community engagement and outreach activities.

Planning Unit interns participate in multidisciplinary teams and committees related to investments and programs, community issues, and other agency activities. They will engage and collaborate with partner agencies in the King County community, and gain exposure to aging initiatives and the aging network including local, regional and state agencies and stakeholders.

Planning Unit interns participate in a range of macro activities including data analysis and evaluation, policy analysis, local and statewide advocacy, planning and development. Notably, the Planning Unit will be leading development of the a four-year Area Plan on Aging in Winter 2025-Fall 2026, which includes needs assessment, community engagement, goal/objective development, public hearings and other activities. Interns will also gain exposure to other administrative functions including contracting and procurement.

Demonstrated interest in social work planning and administration
Ability to engage with community members from diverse backgrounds
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
Excellent communication skills, both written and oral
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to work remotely with minimal direction
Must be able to come into the office at least once a week
Commitment to Race and Social Justice, Equity and Relational work culture

Desired experience:
Knowledge of issues and trends facing older people and adults with disabilities

Complete a resume and cover letter detailing your background, experience and interest in the Planning Unit placement. Send your materials to Allison Boll: Allison.Boll@seattle.gov. After reviewing your materials, we will schedule an interview with applicants. Students selected for placement may need to complete an additional City of Seattle background check.