This internship may be considered 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 50+ 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: Welcome newcomers to our community as a Casework Intern. The Reception and Placement (“R&P”) Program offers support and guidance to newly-arrived refugees through the initial stages of resettlement. Refugee Resettlement Casework Interns work alongside IRC caseworkers to orient newcomers to life in the U.S., and connect families with essential services in the community. In addition to providing direct services, interns also assist with administrative duties, including case file documentation, scheduling appointments, arranging transportation to appointments, setting up apartments for arriving clients, and other related activities. This internship is a great opportunity to gain professional experience in a multi-cultural, social service setting.

Location: In-person at IRC office located in SeaTac. Address: 1200 S 192nd. St SeaTac, WA 98148

Time Commitment: 15-20 hours/week during IRC office hours (M-F, 10am-4pm). Regular schedule required. Minimum 3 month commitment. We are looking for 2 interns to start as soon as possible. 

Responsibilities:

  • Shadow caseworkers and assist in administrative duties as requested, including public benefits application completion (food stamps, Medicaid, Social Security applications).
  • Complete home visits fulfilling core service provision to ensure progress towards PRM self-sufficiency objectives.
  • Assist Operations and Housing Team with apartment setups, including driving IRC vans to housing complexes around the region.
  • Accompany caseworkers to pickup clients upon arrival at the airport, assist with moving clients into their new home.
  • Assist clients with public transportation orientations.
  • Deliver critical documents to clients' homes, including Employment Authorization Documents, Social Security cards, and medical insurance cards.

Skills/Qualifications:

  • This internship is for undergraduate students, graduate students, or recent college graduates. 
  • Applicant must have valid drivers' license and be able to pass a driving background check and be comfortable driving cargo van after onboarding training.
  • Strong intercultural communications skills, demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and across language barriers.
  • Ability to handle sensitive client information confidentially.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills. 
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
  • Must be adaptable, flexible and patient. 
  • 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. 
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English; additional fluency in one of the following languages desirable but not required: Farsi/Dari, Arabic, Swahili, Ukrainian, Burmese, or Tigrinya. 
  • Willingness to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies
  • Access to reliable transportation--note that the IRC office is not close to public transportation.

Reports to: Casework Supervisor

Updated: November 2024

 

If interested in this volunteer opportunity, please email the IRC at [email protected] with the position title in the subject, a resume, and statement of interest/cover letter.