Overview:

The Virtual Cultural Orientation Facilitator supports the integration of newly arrived refugee adults by reviewing topics foundational to navigating their new lives in the United States. The CO Facilitator will use an instructional guide to discuss education, employment, health, safety, cultural adjustment, and more. This volunteer role will work closely with the Cultural Orientation Coordinator and interpreters to connect with families in need of services, one-on-one or in small group.

 

BACKGROUND: Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a leading nonsectarian, voluntary organization providing relief, protection and resettlement services for refugees and victims of oppression or violent conflict. The IRC in Des Moines opened in July of 2022 and looks forward to resettling 150 clients in fiscal year 2023 (beginning October 2022). We offer case management, housing assistance, employment services, financial coaching, health support.  

 

Time Commitment: Orientation will take place twice a month, over a period of several days for 2-3 hours per day Monday-Friday. Occasional classes on weekends are possible.  

 

Responsibilities:  

  • Complete required training on cultural orientation content, either in person or virtually  
  • Facilitate small to large group instruction using provided Cultural Orientation curriculum 
  • Work with interpreters to effectively deliver instructional content to multilingual students 
  • Assist in orienting newly arrived refugees to their neighborhoods through classes and field trips (libraries, parks, clothing stores, grocery stores, and other community services) 
  • Provide follow-up for individuals needing more assistance after Cultural Orientation class 
  • Help develop new resources and curriculum to introduce newly arrived refugees to U.S. customs, laws and culture 

Qualifications:

  • Be able to read from a facilitator’s guide
  • Experience with adult English language learners appreciated
  • Basic technological skills, including internet and email, Word, teleconferencing, and mobile technologies required
  • Have substantial experience living in the United States, especially the Phoenix area
  • Compassionate, patient, and culturally-sensitive
  • Exprience teaching desired but not required
  • Languages desired but not required: French, Spanish, Dari/Farsi, Pashto, Kiswahili or Kinyarwanda. 
  • Level On Finger Print Clearance Card

The Cultural Orientation Facilitator is able to set their own schedule of at least one 2-3 hour block per week; availability for multiple blocks appreciated.

Apply here and please include: 

Top 3 choices- Cultural Orientation Volunteer