As a partner of Warner Bros. Entertainment’s IMPACT Employee Giving Program, which encourages employees to get involved with IMPACT partner organizations through payroll giving and volunteering, the International Rescue Committee provides community members, like Warner Bros.’ own Negin Mirmirani, an opportunity to give back. By donating their time to work with newly arrived refugees, volunteers provide these individuals with much needed support and guidance on their journey from harm to home.
Recently, Negin shared with us what her experience as an IRC volunteer has been like—shedding some light on the work that the IRC does in our community and the high value the IRC places on volunteers.
“I had been wanting, for some time, to give back, and I was looking for the right fit. I wanted to work with people and on issues I cared about while making the best use of my skills and abilities. IRC fit the bill.
”“[As a volunteer in the Early Employment program] I am paired with two clients…and [I] assist them with their efforts to find employment—anywhere from helping write resumes to basic job searching on the internet. I remember what it was like, looking for a job. It is a daunting task, even if you know the country and the language. It’s nice to have someone hold your hand a bit and walk you through it, [so] I’m happy to be able to provide new immigrants to this country, some support because, frankly, I’m in a position to give at this point in my life.
”“Helping someone to find a job or a place to live is a big deal. It is truly substantive, important work and as a volunteer, it is gratifying to feel that you are really making a difference rather than just answering the phone or filing—which is also important, but less rewarding. My clients are appreciative of my time and efforts, even if they don’t result in anything!
”Want to join Negin and make a difference? The IRC’s “Networking Nights” is a series of social gatherings geared to help newly arrived refugees hone their English and presentation skills by allowing them to interact with business and community members. Join us January 14th and 28th and February 25th, from 6 to 8 p.m., for an evening of light refreshments, conversation and camaraderie. For more information on volunteering at the IRC’s “Networking Nights,” please contact the volunteer coordinator Olga Ramaz at (818) 550-6220, ext. 6514 or via email at Olga.Ramaz@theIRC.org
