Requirements
- Must be 18+ years of age
- Must clear a background check ($40 fee)
Commitment
- Total Commitment: 4 months or longer
- Volunteer opportunities with the IRC in San Jose require a minimum 2-8 hours per week commitment, depending on the opportunity
- Hours must be completed during standard business hours (i.e., Monday - Friday between 9 AM and 5 PM) unless otherwise agreed upon. Volunteer opportunities outside of standard business hours are extremely limited.
Current Opportunities
Casework Services
Want to know where it all begins? Casework Services focuses on assessing and addressing the basic needs of recently arrived refugees as they begin their journey to integration and self-sufficiency. Services include but are not limited to assisting with securing and furnishing permanent housing, enrolling in public benefits and other supportive services, and providing cultural and community orientation. Casework Services volunteers warmly welcome our newest community members and assist them with their journey to successful resettlement in this transformative experience.
Community Engagement
Together, we can achieve more! Join the Community Engagement team in harnessing community support to amplify the IRC's impact. Community Engagement volunteers assist with the IRC in San Jose's internal and external communications, volunteer recruitment and management, in-kind donations program, and events/special projects to gain a comprehensive understanding of refugee resettlement and the non-profit sector. This experience is ideal for a sociable person who relishes variety in their work!
Early Employment Services
A step towards empowerment! Our Early Employment services focus on assisting IRC clients with their journey to gainful employment. From creating resumes to applying for jobs and hosting interview preparation sessions, volunteers will aid IRC's Early Employment clients with every step of this critical journey in this impactful experience. This experience is perfect for those who want to work 1:1 or in small groups with recently arrived refugees.
ESL Services
Communication is key! Our ESL services primarily teach the vocabulary necessary for recently arrived refugees to secure their first job. However, our clients' differing English proficiency levels may require more advanced training. Lessons can be 1:1 or in small groups, depending on student needs. This impactful experience is perfect for those who love to teach or are seeking TESOL certification.
Immigration Services & Outreach
Have a passion for immigration? Work alongside our Immigration team to connect with the local immigrant community and assist with processing applications for citizenship, lawful permanent residence, family reunification, and more. This experience is ideal for those interested in the legal field.
Youth Services
Youth are the future! Our youth programs focus on assisting youth aged 15-24 years of age to meet their academic, professional, and social goals. Volunteers assist with conversation clubs, college and career readiness workshops, and more in this gratifying experience. This experience would be great for those who enjoy supporting youth in their development.
Application Process
- Submit an online application here. Please be sure to list specific opportunities you are interested in in the "top three positions that interest you" section as well as your availability. Due to a high volume of interest, applications with this information are prioritized.
- Interviews
- Background Check ($40 fee)
- Orientation and Paperwork
- Begin your Service!
