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VIP – Our Volunteer & Internship Programs

“Be the change you want to see in the world.” – Gandhi

Espie Hernandez, Volunteer/Internship Coordinator – 213-974-9740
ehernandez@dca.lacounty.gov

IMPORTANT! The applications are provided in PDF (Portable Document Format) and REQUIRE the FREE Adobe Acrobat Reader Software.

The Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) assists over 400,000 consumers each year. We are able to serve so many consumers because of people like you who recognize the importance of community service. We handle consumer, and real estate complaints, assist small claims litigants, and provide mediation services.

Volunteer Opportunities

DCA provides volunteers and interns the opportunity to work in a professional and friendly environment where you can:

  • Learn about consumer rights and responsibilities
  • Help consumers in your community
  • Build your resume
  • Share your professional skills

We are looking for volunteers and interns who:

  • Enjoy working with people
  • Have good listening and analytical skills
  • Are dependable

Intern Evelyn
“VIP has helped me explore a new career and help
others, too.” - Student Intern Evelyn Barba

If you have these qualities, we can provide you an interesting and satisfying opportunity. Consider one of the three volunteer or internship positions described in this brochure.

Consumer Counselor

Consumer Counselors assist consumers, homeowners and small claims litigants in person and on the telephone with problems concerning:

  • Landlord-tenant issues
  • Retail sales and false advertising
  • Identity Theft
  • Home loans and repairs
  • Small Claims procedures

Volunteers that like to work with the public enjoy this assignment.

Investigative Assistant

Investigative Assistants work with our investigators to resolve consumer and homeowner complaints. They:

  • Interview consumers and businesses
  • Review consumer complaints to identify relevant facts and issues
  • Prepare cases for referral to other agencies
  • Research consumer laws

Volunteers who enjoy this work are assertive, persuasive, tactful, and eager to learn new skills.

Mediator

Volunteer mediators resolve disputes between businesses, consumers, and neighbors. Mediators attend a basic free mediation training program and provide free mediation services to our consumers.

Volunteers that like challenging work and have good analytical and people skills enjoy this assignment.

Volunteer Mike Phillips
“Volunteering brings balance into my life. I am able to continue to use my professional skills while making a difference in people’s lives.” - Volunteer Mike Phillips, Retired Chief Executive Officer for Sears Roebuck Acceptance Corp.

If you are ready to volunteer…

The office is open from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Days and hours are flexible. Training will be provided. Volunteers at the Civic Center office are provided with free parking. Our Civic Center office is located next to the Disney Concert Hall and the Music Center in Downtown Los Angeles.

If you would like more information contact:

Espie Hernandez, Volunteer/Internship Coordinator
213-974-9740
ehernandez@dca.lacounty.gov

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