SCOPE OF HSPRS: The IRC Home Study and Post Release Services (HSPRS) program promotes the safety and wellbeing of unaccompanied children (UC) who have been released from the Office of Refugee Resettlement's (ORR) custody to a sponsor in the United States. Unaccompanied Children (UCs) are minors who have no lawful immigration status in the U.S. and enter the U.S. without a parent or legal guardian available to provide care or take custody.  

A Home Study (HS) is a process in which a HSPRS staff person assesses the proposed sponsor and household unit, evaluates the potential sponsor’s ability to meet the unaccompanied child’s (UC) needs, while educating and preparing the potential sponsor for reunification with the UC, as required under the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (TVPRA). The Post Release Services (PRS) for children who would benefit from ongoing support. These services include assistance in connecting children and their sponsors to community-based resources. All children who have a home study receive PRS following their release. Children released without a home study may also receive PRS if they are specially identified as needing additional assistance in connecting to appropriate resources in the community. 

Please note that all internships are unpaid. This position requires a minimum of 15 hours a week for 3 consecutive months. 

INTERN RESPONSIBILITIES: The HSPRS Intern will assist case workers with the following tasks: 

Assist caseworker with building and maintaining case files to ensure that all requirements for documentation are met consistently throughout the provision of Post Release Services. 

Assist caseworkers in building a strong network with local service providers who are available to provide needed services and resources to unaccompanied minors through research and outreach initiatives. 

Refer unaccompanied minors to resources and services, as well as schedule any appointments as necessary and instructed by the casework staff. 

Research services and resources applicable to the UC program to facilitate the referral process. 

Ensure client success with a strong emphasis on education and empowerment through high-quality service that encourages clients to thrive in their community. 

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

Practice sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of clients by respecting their beliefs and values. 

Provide translation and interpretation when necessary. 

Other duties as assigned