Refugee Resettlement – Social Work Intern

BACKGROUND: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst

humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in over 40 countries

and 29 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home.

Domestically, our 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.

SCOPE OF INTERN WORK: Refugee Resettlement Interns work alongside Caseworkers in order to

help in some of the most crucial areas of refugee resettlement work. Interns assist with core services including:

• Applying for and enrolling clients in social service programs, school enrollment, medical assistance,

and other case management related tasks.

• Assistance with housing search and resettlement (apartment viewings, filling out housing

applications, helping with housing set ups/move ins)

• Supporting employment efforts for refugees/clients (job searching, resume building, prepping for

employment)

• Conducting public transportation orientation for clients

COMMITMENT:

• 15 – 30 hours per week

• Six months minimum commitment

• IRC is committed to working with student schedules. We will accommodate time off necessary

for midterms and school holidays, and altering weekly schedules to adapt to changing class

schedules.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

∙ Accompany refugee clients on appointments and interviews with community service providers

(DHA, Refugee Health Clinics, Social Security Administration, etc.)

∙ Prepare apartments for incoming refugee families

∙ Coordinate with Case Management staff to ensure services are being received

∙ Manage client files and track necessary services

∙ Maintain a professional attitude and appearance as an IRC representative.

∙ Fulfill any other responsibilities assigned by supervising Case Manager.

LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Interns will gain experience in the core resettlement program of one of the

world’s leading refugee agencies, including networking with community providers, managing

databases, and assisting in the resettlement of people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

REQUIREMENTS:

∙ Current undergraduate, graduate student, or less than one year out of school

∙ An interest in international and refugee issues

∙ Punctuality, excellent time management skills, and a flexible schedule

∙ Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding client information

∙ Proficiency in one of the following languages is highly desirable: Arabic, Dari, Farsi, Pashto, or Urdu,

is preferred, but not required

∙ Office experience a plus, but training will be provided

∙ Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from

other cultural backgrounds

∙ Ability to work independently as well as in a team

∙ Flexibility and willingness to work outside normal office hours

∙ Must have driver’s license, vehicle, auto insurance and clean driving record