Please Note:  This is an unpaid position; however, it 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 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.

The IRC’s New Roots program has developed services and infrastructure aimed at engaging low-income families in urban agriculture, nutrition education, and healthy food access navigation. New Roots builds on the agricultural experience of many new refugee and immigrant families by providing access to land, materials, and education for program participants to grow healthy food.

Scope of Intern Work: The New Roots Senior’s Program will have the opportunity to learn and appreciate the challenges senior immigrants face in a new and unusual environment with risk of emotional and social isolation; familiarize with the various federal and state assistance available for seniors; gain skills of planning and coordinating events for seniors; understanding the tremendous needs of seniors while offering their existing interpersonal and other technical skills.

The Intern will primarily be responsible for assisting seniors in socialization activities with a focus on field trips. The intern will build on the existing practices. Tasks will involve identifying and mapping of relevant and feasible events and amenities; planning, arranging, coordinating, and facilitating socialization activities; record keeping and responsive and reliable communication. This position is great for someone with a passion for working with multi-cultural Seniors who have language, mobility, and use of technology challenges.

Specific duties include:

Mapping and Identification  

  • Prepare list of potential feasible events with information on admission, access, and other relevant parameters  
  • Identify and select events in consultation with the seniors.
  • Prepare tip/visit plan and execute as needed. 

Facilitating Trips

  • Provide detailed information to seniors and other relevant members on the visits.
  • Arrange transportation (UBER booking, van rental, IRC Van etc) as needed.
  • Ensure seniors are transported to and from the visit destination in a safe and smooth manner.
  • Assist quarterly group visits, or other visits as needed in person.

Other Responsibilities as Assigned:

  • Assist with other tasks as needed (Monthly health checks via phone calls to facilitate the procurement and delivery of requested items, e.g. food, clothes, hygiene supplies, etc.

Location: Hybrid remote and IRC Office at 1200 S 192nd St, SeaTac, WA 98148.

Time Commitment: 10-15 hours/week during IRC office hours (M-F, 9am-5pm). Regular schedule required. Preferred 4-5 month commitment. 

Skills/Qualifications: 

  • Passion for assisting seniors
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills will aid in interactions with culturally and linguistically diversified clients  
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Must be able to work productively in a team environment, as well as under minimal supervision, taking the initiative to ask questions as needed.
  • Computer and software skills including Microsoft Office
  • Must have access to a car, phone, computer, and internet to perform the duties of this position well.

Reports to: Senior Wellness Assistant

Updated: May 2024

 

If interested in this volunteer opportunity, please email the IRC at [email protected] with the position title in the subject line along with a resume/CV and a statement or cover letter describing how this position aligns with past experiences and/or future goals, and your interest in the position.