Scope of Asylum Seeker Programming Intern position:

 The IRC in NY is seeking interns to join a groundbreaking case management program for asylum seekers in New York City. Interns will support program staff in providing life-changing services to recent arrivals in NYC, especially around accessing healthcare, public benefits, housing, and legal services. The interns’ key responsibilities will include assisting with large group orientations, conducting referral research and engagement to connect clients to external services, and support with key program operations. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in immigration advocacy while making a meaningful impact in the lives of asylum seekers and migrants.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Program Orientation Support

 Assist in the coordination and facilitation of large group orientations for potential IRC asylum seeker program clientsCollaborate with staff to develop materials and resources for orientation sessionsSupport client enrollment into programs for which they qualifyRefer ineligible clients to community resources such as local departments of social services, shelters, food banks, crisis centers, and others as applicable

Referral Research and Support

Conduct research on referral opportunities and available resources in New York City to enhance our support service networkProvide support to caseworkers with connecting clients to external servicesHelp maintain and organize referral records and databases, incorporating client
feedback

Program Administration and Development

Document client interactions in accordance with established requirementsMaintain client files across multiple platforms (Box, ETO, Sharepoint, etc)Administer Client Satisfaction Surveys to individuals who have exited Asylum Seeker
ProgramsSupport with creating internal and external facing tools and resourcesOther duties as assigned.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Student will gain valuable insight into the current landscape for asylum seekers in NYC, including the legal process and social services available.Interns will develop hands-on experience in providing trauma- informed direct support to
asylum seekers, enhancing their understanding of client needs and service delivery
within the immigration system.Student will develop skills and institutional knowledge related to program operations and administration in a new and developing area of programming at the IRC in NY.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education – Interns should be enrolled into a university program (Associate’s,Bachelor’s, Master’s, etc). Individuals with at least 2 years of direct services would will be considered regardless of educational background.Strong interest in immigration issues, social justice, and advocacy work.Excellent research and communication skills.Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse, multi-lingual team environment.Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and online research
tools.Previous experience in social services, community work, immigration, or related fields is a plus, but not required.Comfortable working in a dynamic and fast-paced environmentAbility to engage in emotional conversations on sensitive topics such as labor trafficking, domestic violence, and family separationLanguages: Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Spanish strongly preferred, will also consider French, Pashto, Dari, Russian, Wolof, Pulaar, Farsi

Equal Opportunity Employer: IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.