BACKGROUND: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home. 

SCOPE OF INTERN WORK: The Front Desk Volunteer will provide coverage for the reception desk, greet and direct client walk-ins, and schedule client appointments with appropriate staff.  He/she will answer the IRC in New Jersey’s main telephone line, direct incoming calls as appropriate and assess documentation of clients to determine program eligibility. The Front Desk Volunteer will provide additional clerical assistance and support to IRC staff in the office. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:  

Perform reception duties such as greeting visitors to the office and connecting them to appropriate staff 

Assess documentation of visitors to determine eligibility of services 

Schedule appointments for all programs depending on eligibility of client 

Answer and direct incoming phone calls 

Assist staff with clerical and administrative duties 

Display sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of refugee clients.  Respect their beliefs and values.   

Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy.   

Communicate effectively in person and by telephone. 

Other related duties as assigned. 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 

Understand scope of IRC services and programs available for a variety of immigrant and refugee groups in New Jersey. 

Improve communication and customer service skills in a linguistically and culturally diverse environment. 

Learn about refugee resettlement issues and processes.