Background:
Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee is a leading, non-sectarian, non-profit organization providing emergency relief, protection, rehabilitation assistance, resettlement services, and advocacy for refugees and victims of oppression or violent conflict. Domestically, our 22 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.
Scope of Role:
Developing the skills and confidence to navigate the American School System is crucial for new arrivals’ success in Richmond. These skills allow parents to become more active in their children’s education and support kids as they adjust to their new reality. The Youth Team Intern will assist clients with accessing school accounts, community resources, and provide longer term assistance navigating the American School System when needed. It is important to note that this is an IN-PERSON position. Applicants should be available to be in the office for at least 10 hours a week, availability in the mornings preferred.
Learning Objectives:
Youth Team Intern will:
Become proficient in outreach to clients of various language and educational backgrounds
Learn how to manage supporting services within the established requirements, to provide the best possible service to vulnerable populations.
Develop critical thinking skills, clients service skills, and intercultural education and social work skills.
Learn about the IRC locally and globally, the available services to refugees and ORR-eligible clients in Richmond, Virginia.
Responsibilities:
Assist IRC staff with outreach and coordination to clients
Follow up with clients to make sure they have all information for appointments and events
Assist with PowerSchool Account set up
Enroll parents in the online school system and assist them to download the application on their phones.
Show parents how to navigate the site and interpret the attendance/grades information that is provided
Assist parents to think critically about ways that they can support their children in their school journey
Continued client support and resource connections
Follow IRC staff directives to further assist families who may need more support navigating the school system
Connect clients with relevant community resources and assist them in enrollment (Library card, Museums for All Membership, etc.)
Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy, and practice sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of clients by respecting their beliefs and values.
Other support as needed.