Background:

The International Rescue Committee (IRC), founded in 1933, is a globally recognized, non-sectarian, non-profit organization dedicated to providing emergency relief, protection, rehabilitation, resettlement services, and advocacy for refugees and individuals affected by oppression or violent conflict. With 26 offices across the United States, IRC supports new arrivals by ensuring they have food, shelter, and essential items while empowering refugees to achieve self-sufficiency.

The Digital Inclusion Program is part of IRC Salt Lake City’s educational efforts, focused on developing digital skills among newly arrived refugees and immigrants. This initiative provides access to technology resources and essential skills for navigating life in Salt Lake City. Services include facilitating affordable home internet, access to devices (phones and laptops), digital mentorship, and support for digital integration into core resettlement services.

Internship Scope:

Under the supervision of the Digital Inclusion Specialist, the Digital Access Intern will conduct digital skills assessments, assist with internet service enrollments, and provide foundational training on computers and smartphones for refugee clients. This role is essential for bridging the digital divide that often prevents clients from accessing critical IRC services like online healthcare, job readiness, and English language learning platforms. The intern will support digital literacy classes, assist with job readiness programming, help clients engage in IRC Salt Lake City’s virtual programs, and manage an inventory of donated digital devices for distribution.

Commitment:

The Digital Inclusion Access Intern must commit to following all IRC policies and procedures, working both on-site and off-site for 20-25 hours per week from January 13th to April 25th.

Responsibilities:

•            Ensure precise data entry and maintain up-to-date, accurate records

•            Support Digital Inclusion programs and events

•            Assist tech volunteers in providing digital literacy training

•            Conduct digital skills assessments for newly arrived clients

•            Coordinate the efficient distribution and setup of laptops and digital devices

•            Provide ongoing technical support, both onsite and remotely for clients

•            Enroll clients in internet service programs (instruction will be provided)

•            Assist with career readiness programs.

•            Train clients on using virtual platforms such as Zoom and Google Meet.

•            Perform other assigned duties (such as front desk coverage or office support)

Learning Objectives:

•            Cultivate Professional Expertise: Gain foundational knowledge in digital literacy programming and best practices in digital education to empower individuals in underserved communities.

•            Enhance Program Design Skills: Expand your understanding of program design, data tracking methodologies, and evaluation techniques to assess and improve the effectiveness of digital technology initiatives.

•            Develop Cross-Cultural Communication Skills: Acquire practical experience in cross-cultural communication, employing a strength-based approach to enhance service delivery for diverse populations.

•            Understand Resettlement Processes: Gain insight into the refugee resettlement process and the unique challenges faced by new Americans, informing your approach to developing user-centered technology solutions.

•            Design and Deliver Tailored Training: Create and conduct targeted digital literacy training sessions specifically addressing the needs of refugees, fostering their integration into the digital world.