Resettlement Intern - Fall 2019

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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:
Refugee Resettlement Interns 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. Interns 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.This position reports to the
Resettlement Caseworker.

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:
 Current undergraduate 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,
Tigrinya, 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
 Valid driver’s license, vehicle, auto insurance and clean driving record.

REWARDS:
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. 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.

APPLY:
Complete an online application and upload your resume and cover letter in a single PDF file to the
application. Please tailor your cover letter to the position to which you are applying and include the
following:
 Up to 3 positions of interest, ranked in order of preference
 Time availability for your internship, i.e. the number of hours you are available each week,
specific days and times, and your anticipated start and end dates for interning
 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