Housing Outreach & Logistics Volunteer

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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 WORK:
Meeting refugees’ housing needs are a critical part of their resettlement process in the United States. Our clients' housing affects their ability to be employed, their access to public services, and their integration within the community. Making connections with community members is important now than ever due to the high cost of rent. All refugees arriving in the U.S. are given a one-time amount of $1,125 per person to cover initial basic costs. This amount is the same regardless of where the state they are resettled. Volunteers will support the Resettlement Case Workers in conducting housing outreach here in the San Jose Area. Volunteers will also work closely with the Volunteer and Donation Coordinator to help facilitate furniture donations. This position reports to the Resettlement Case Manager.

COMMITMENT:

Minimum 4 hours per week for 4-6months, with a courtesy notice of at least 2 weeks prior to leaving the organization. Hours can be completed during normal business hours of Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and outside regular hours as well.

• Responsibilities:
  • Preparing for refugees’ arrival in the U.S. by coordinating donations of essential furniture and household goods for clients in need
  • Mediating between landlords and refugees/asylees
  • Conduct occasional visits to refugees' homes
  • Research housing opportunities and solutions
  • Manage databases
  • Network with community providers and local landlords
  • Other related duties as assigned
• Required Skills:
  • Energetic, empathetic, organized, and ready to do a variety of jobs
  • Creative and willing to assist with long-term projects
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English

APPLY:

• Complete an online application here : http://bit.ly/IRCVolunteerApplicationSJ
  • Applications must include a resume and cover letter in a single PDF file. Please tailor your cover letter to include the following:
    • Up to three positions of interest ranked in order of preference
    • Time availability, i.e. specific days and times each week, your anticipated start and end dates for interning, and your immediate interview availability, if different from internship availability
    • Any requirements for filing your internship for school credit, e.g. total number of hours to be completed or filing deadline
    • Once your application is received, qualified candidates will be invited to schedule a phone screening