Asylum Seeker Programming Intern

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 clients
• Collaborate with staff to develop materials and resources for orientation sessions
• Support client enrollment into programs for which they qualify
• Refer 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 network
• Provide support to caseworkers with connecting clients to external services
• Help maintain and organize referral records and databases, incorporating client
  feedback

Program Administration and Development

• Document client interactions in accordance with established requirements
• Maintain client files across multiple platforms (Box, ETO, Sharepoint, etc)
• Administer Client Satisfaction Surveys to individuals who have exited Asylum Seeker
  Programs
• Support with creating internal and external facing tools and resources
• Other duties as assigned.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Student will gain valuable insight into the current landscape for asylum seekers in NYC, including the legal process and social services available.
2. 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.
3. 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 environment
• Ability to engage in emotional conversations on sensitive topics such as labor trafficking, domestic violence, and family separation
• Languages: 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.