FAQ

Please read the information below before applying to be a member of Project Lux. Feel free to reach out at usc@projectluxnp.org if you have any other questions!

About

Project Lux USC is a student-led initiative committed to expanding access to essential public assistance programs for underserved communities across Los Angeles. We help individuals enroll in Medi-Cal, CalFresh, and General Relief through BenefitsCal, offering direct, in-person support at shelters and community events. 

As an active member, you will be trained to become a BenefitsCal assister, gaining experience in navigating Los Angeles' social and healthcare systems and supporting clients with care and dignity. In addition to enrollment assistance, we distribute bus passes and care packages at tabling events to meet immediate needs. Through this work, our members develop practical skills in social service navigation, public health advocacy, and community-centered care.

As a general member, you can help to pack care packages during our general meetings, prepare documents containing information regarding social resources for distribution at our outreach events, and can participate in our joint events with Share-A-Meal and Union Rescue Mission.

Joining Project Lux

How do I apply to join Project Lux?

We open applications at the beginning of each semester. To apply, simply fill out the application form here. (Note: this is not the same as the interest form!) 

While we accept new members on a rolling basis throughout the semester, you must be an active member by October 1 to be eligible for BenefitsCal Assister training this semester. If you join after that date, no worries! We’ll offer another round of training in the spring.

Do I need any prior experience to join?

No experience is required! We provide training on how to navigate BenefitsCal and how to interact respectfully and effectively with vulnerable populations.

Can I join if I’m not pre-med or studying public health?

Yes. We welcome students from all majors who are passionate about service, health equity, or community health.

Are there any fees to join?

Membership is free, however all members are required to purchase a club shirt to attend our events ($15).

Membership & Commitment

How do I become an active member?

As BenefitsCal assister training requires time and resources, active membership slots are limited. Applicants are required to have a short coffee chat with a board member. More details will be shared during our information sessions and first general meeting (GM).

What is the time commitment?

The expected weekly time commitment is 4-5h (1 event (3-4h) + GM (~1h). 

GMs will be held every Thursday, 6-7pm, starting 9/25. Events are held throughout the week.

Training & Certification

How do I get certified to be a BenefitsCal Assister?

Project Lux offers structured training sessions for active members who want to become certified BenefitsCal assisters. We’ll teach you how to navigate the platform, understand eligibility requirements for Medi-Cal, CalFresh, and General Relief, and guide clients through the enrollment process step by step. You'll also learn how to handle sensitive information ethically and respectfully.

Only active members are eligible to apply to become a BenefitsCal Assister.

Are there additional certifications available?

For select members, we offer training to become a Certified Enrollment Counselor (CEC) with Covered California. This certification allows you to enroll clients in low-cost insurance plans beyond Medi-Cal and to work remotely using our online platform, Carelink, which connects clients to healthcare access. CECs engage in ongoing follow-up with clients to assist them with renewals, changes, and continued care access. Becoming a CEC requires a separate application and is a selective process.

Events and Logistics

What types of events will I attend?

You'll help with community outreach events on campus, in public spaces and at shelters or clinics. These events include benefit enrollments, care package distribution, and client support. We also have weekly joint sessions with Share-A-Meal, a food truck service that distributes free meals, as well as serve in Union Rescue Mission’s soup kitchen. 

Is transportation provided for off-campus events?

Yes. We will provide rides to the event and back to campus for all attending members. 

We are currently looking for more drivers - if you have a car and are willing to drive (all drives are <15min), do let us know - we will reimburse you for gas!

Again, do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! You can contact us at usc@projectluxnp.org.