SCOPE OF WORK: The International Rescue Committee (IRC), works in the United States, welcomes newly arrived refugees and immigrants, supports them in their resettlement, and provides holistic services to help them build new lives in their communities.
RESPONSIBILITIES: The Preferred Communities (PC) Program provides case management services to the most vulnerable refugee groups who face systemic challenges when navigating the U.S. systems. Three programs fall under PC: Intensive Case Management, Supplemental Case Management, and OIRS. Interns play a key role in supporting clients with accessing needed benefits and services over the course of their internship. Interns are assigned to a PC Case Manager to support their specific caseload with client-facing (ex: attending medical appointments, guidance on public transportation) and administrative duties (ex: referrals for additional services, file maintenance)
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
- Student will learn about refugee resettlement and refugee social services.
- Student will develop creative problem-solving and client-facing skills.
- Student will strengthen caseload management experience via direct client support.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Volunteers must be based in the U.S. Interns must be based in US and be enrolled in post-secondary institution or have graduated from a post-secondary institution within last 2 years.
- Preferred Languages (not required): Spanish, Arabic, Ukrainian, Russian, Haitian Creole, French, Dari, Pashto
- Experience working with vulnerable populations or in case management appreciated
- Under/graduate level studies in social sciences, international relations, or a related field
- Strong desire to support refugees rebuilding their lives in NYC
- Ability to exercise good judgment and have high attention to detail
- Demonstrate ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment
- Effective communication skills in a collaborative team setting
- Adaptability and willingness to take initiative
- Competency in Microsoft Office and file management
- Interest in learning about IRC history, philosophy, global work, and local efforts
- Willing to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies
SCHEDULE DETAILS: Minimum of one workday in-office; remaining hours can be hybrid unless otherwise needed for client-facing support