TITLE: Child Care Navigation Intern
LOCATION: Missoula, Montana
START DATE: Summer or Fall 2024
COMMITMENT: 10+ hours per week during standard business hours for one semester

 

BACKGROUND:

The International Rescue Committee is the leading nonsectarian, voluntary organization providing relief, protection and resettlement services for refugees and victims of oppression or violent conflict. The IRC is committed to freedom, human dignity, and self-reliance. This commitment is reflected in well-planned resettlement assistance, global emergency relief, rehabilitation, and advocacy for refugees. Founded in 1933, the IRC is a global leader in emergency relief, rehabilitation, protection of human rights, post-conflict development, resettlement services, and advocacy for those uprooted or affected by conflict and oppression. The resettlement office in Missoula, Montana provides services to approximately 120 newly arriving refugees per year.

SCOPE OF WORK:

As a child care navigation intern, you will work closely with the IRC Missoula staff and local providers to ensure refugee children are placed in appropriate education and childcare facilities. You will also provide family support services, assisting refugee families in navigating the childcare landscape. This role helps families search for childcare based on individual needs including afterschool, daycare, summer camps, or other placements.

ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS:

  • Develop and implement a childcare self-sufficiency plan in coordination with IRC staff and refugee families including: searching for appropriate openings, facilitating tours, & assisting families in completing paperwork
  • Serve as a liaison between refugee clients and local childcare providers, with the potential to provide in-center support where necessary. 
  • Establish and cultivate relationships with childcare and early education providers
  • Teach families how to walk to or ride the public bus to reach childcare facilities
  • Assisting with files, case notes, data entry, participation in weekly case staffing meetings, and other administrative tasks 
  • Other responsibilities as assigned

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Background in early childhood education, social work, or other related fields
  • Motivated, flexible, and able to work independently, prioritize, and manage time effectively
  • Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate and work as a team member in a cross-cultural environment
  • Able to pass an IRC background check through HireRight
  • Experience working with refugees/diverse populations is a plus

POSISTION LOGISTICS:

  • Compensation: This an unpaid internship - College credit available upon request
  • Hours: 10+ or more hours a week
  • Supervisor: Early Childhood Education Specialist
  • Complete an Intern Orientation which covers: The role of the IRC, IRC policies to which all interns must adhere, and how to track your internship hours

Interested candidates should email a resume and brief statement of interest to [email protected]

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer IRC considers all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status or disability.