Please Note: This is an unpaid position. This position may be considered an internship for school credit, depending on your school policies and requirements. If this is desired, please indicate so when applying.

Background: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) helps people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover and gain control of their future. IRC teams provide health, infrastructure, learning and economic support to people in 40 countries worldwide. The IRC also provides support to thousands of refugees resettling in 29 U.S. cities each year through initial housing assistance; case management and referral services; job readiness and placement; community and cultural orientation; health and wellness programs; immigration services; and youth programs.

Scope of internship: IRC’s Washington Anti-Trafficking Response Program (WARN) supports survivors of human trafficking as they rebuild their lives free from trauma and exploitation. MSW Interns work alongside WARN Case Managers/Advocates to help and access services for survivors. Interns also assist with other duties, including case file documentation, scheduling appointments, arranging transportation to appointments, and other related activities. Interns may also participate in outreach efforts to provide access to services to individuals and communities vulnerable to human trafficking. This internship is a great opportunity to gain professional experience in a multi-cultural, social service setting. We are specifically looking for second year/specialized MSW students or who are advanced standing to students to apply for this internship. 

Location: Hybrid. Mostly remote with in-person option available at IRC Seattle office located in SeaTac. Address: 1200 S 192nd. St SeaTac, WA 98148

Time Commitment: 15-20 hours/week during IRC office hours (M-F, 9am-5pm PT). Regular schedule required. Minimum 6-month commitment. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Complete IRC onboarding training on victim advocacy, trauma-informed service provision, and confidentiality
  • Research local resources and assist clients with accessing needed services such as housing, food, legal services, medical services, transportation, mental health treatment, clothing, housing, safety planning, etc.
  • Answer calls on the WARN Client Assistance Line and provides appropriate resources and referral information.
  • Participate in regular case consultation monthly meetings with WARN/IRC team, WARN coalition, and Homeland Security Investigations/Seattle Police Department
  • Engage in mezzo/macro work by attending regular meetings held by Washington Advisory Committee on Trafficking (WashACT) task force, IRC Anti-Trafficking programs in the U.S., Freedom Network USA, etc.
  • Maintain WARN Community Resources directory
  • Manage confidential client case files and document services (electronic and hard copies)
  • Participate in ongoing learning and professional development through self-study, case presentations by WARN Case Managers/Advocates and appropriate trainings and webinars
  • Maintain a professional attitude and appearance as an IRC representative
  • Fulfill other case management responsibilities assigned by supervising Case Manager/Advocate

Requirements:

  • Must be a second year/specialized or advanced standing Master of Social Work graduated student
  • Ability to work with individuals across the spectrum of age, religion, race, culture, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and gender expressions & identities
  • Ability to handle sensitive client information confidentially
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as a part of a team
  • Comfortable working in high-stress environments and without direct supervision at times.
  • Familiarity with Windows operating system and confidence in basic computer skills (word processing, email, data entry); willingness to learn new software
  • Familiarity with trauma-informed practices preferred
  • English proficiency, both spoken and written, and professional proficiency in Spanish preferred, but not required
  • Willingness to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies
  •  Access to reliable transportation to travel throughout the service delivery area (currently not required due to position being fully remote).

Reports to: MSW WARN Case Manager/Advocate and Survivor Services Intern

Updated: December 2023

If interested in this volunteer opportunity, please email the IRC at

[email protected] with the position title in the subject