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 28 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home. The IRC in Atlanta office was established in 1979 and has resettled over 30,000 refugees from over 65 countries into the Greater Atlanta area. As the largest refugee resettlement agency in Georgia, the IRC in Atlanta resettles an average of 1,000 refugees into Georgia annually and provides additional services and assistance to another 2,500 refugees and asylees. 

SCOPE OF INTERN WORK: The Unaccompanied Children Intern will assist the Unaccompanied Children Senior Caseworker – ATL with the provision of case management services to recently arrived unaccompanied children as they adjust to their new lives in the US. An unaccompanied child is defined as a minor under the age of eighteen who has arrived in the United States without documentation and without the presence of a parent or legal guardian. After their release from a shelter run by the Office of Refugee Resettlement and into the care of a sponsor, a minor can be recommended for Post Release Services to ensure that they are successfully connected with the resources and services needed to promote their successful integration into their new communities. The intern will have the opportunity to play a key role in providing organizational support to the caseworker in the Atlanta area by performing a variety of clerical and administrative duties, in addition to helping to build a strong network with community providers who can provide key services to clients. Please note that all internship positions are unpaid. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

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 caseworker in building a strong network with local service providers who are available to provide needed services and resources with 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.  Possibly accompany clients to certain appointments with their sponsor in the Atlanta area, as appropriate given COVID-19 restrictions.  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.  Perform reception duties such as greeting visitors to the office and connecting them to appropriate staff.  Provide translation and interpretation when necessary.  Other duties as assigned. 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Intern will learn about the Unaccompanied Children Program as well as various social services available to undocumented immigrants in the Atlanta area. Intern will develop problem solving skills, client services skills, and intercultural social work skills. Intern will learn how to manage client cases within established deadlines, to provide the best service possible to a vulnerable population.