Refugee Resettlement Assistant

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ABOUT THE IRC:

Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee is a leading non-sectarian non-profit organization providing emergency relief, protection, rehabilitation assistance, resettlement services, and advocacy for refugees and victims of oppression or violent conflict. The 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 26 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home. Domestically, our 26 offices across the U.S. work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency, and ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing.

IRC SAN JOSE:

As one of the IRC’s 26 domestic offices, the San Jose office serves refugees, asylees, special immigrants from Iraq and Afghanistan, and victims of human trafficking in Santa Clara County. Since opening in 1975, the San Jose office has resettled over 20,000 refugees, who in turn have helped to build a stronger community. A committed staff of professionals and volunteers provide essential case management and immigration services to immigrant families, providing them with the resources and tools to rebuild their lives with safety and dignity.

SCOPE OF POSITION:

Refugee Resettlement Volunteers work alongside caseworkers in order to help in some of the most crucial areas of refugee resettlement work. The Resettlement Program is the first point of contact for newly arrived refugees and offers support, guidance and counseling though all stages of resettlement. Volunteers assist with core services including but not limited to: applying for and enrolling clients in social service programs, school enrollment, medical assistance, apartment set-up, and other case management related tasks.

COMMITMENT:

Candidate must be available for a minimum 4 month commitment, 15-20 hours per week to be completed during normal business hours of 9 am - 4 pm Monday- Friday. Late afternoon and weekend availability may be requested for airport pick-ups. Work related driving would be reimbursed.

This position is unpaid.

ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS:

• Accompany refugee clients on appointments and interviews with community service providers (Social Services, Refugee Health Clinics, Social Security Administration, etc.)
• Coordinate donations of essential furniture and household goods for clients in need
• Assist clients with pre-application activities such as screening for eligibility, preparing documents, and coordinating transportation and language services at appointments
• Coordinate with Case Management staff to ensure services are being received
• Assist with providing cultural orientation and long-term resource referrals
• Assist with managing case files, notes, and receipts of direct assistance
• Maintain a professional attitude and appearance as an IRC representative.
• Fulfill any other responsibilities assigned by supervising Case Manager.

REQUIREMENTS:

• 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 desirable: Arabic, Dari, Farsi, Pashto, Tigrigna, or Swahili 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

REWARDS:

Volunteers 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. Hands-on experience dealing with the practical aspects of helping newly arrived refugees regain control of their lives and become self-sufficient members of their new community. Experience and understanding of U.S. refugee resettlement policy and immigration law.

This position reports to the Resettlement Caseworker

APPLYING:

Apply by sending your resume and schedule of availability to the Volunteer Coordinator at volunteerSJ@rescue.org.

Please clearly state your time availability, which includes 1) specific projected start and end dates, 2) the number of hours you are available each week, and 3) the days and times in which you are available.

Due to the high volume of applications, we regret that we cannot respond to every prospective intern.