This position is now closed to applications.
SCOPE OF VOLUNTEER WORK:
Teen Refugees United and Empowered (TRUE) provides a safe space for young refugee women, ages 12 to 19, who are transitioning into a new culture and community to discuss issues they’ve identified as important to them. As a group facilitator, you can help guide these discussions and support participants as they explore what it means to be a young woman in their new home. TRUE operates as an open, group forum, held for one hour once a week, and has covered various topics, including: identity; how to set and achieve short and long term goals; building a new home in a new country; gender roles and relationships; self-care and physical well-being; financial literacy; educational and vocational opportunities; and more. Participants in TRUE have also had the opportunity to engage with their new community through fun activities, such as trips to college campuses, visiting the zoo and aquarium, theater performances and taking dance lessons. Facilitators are also responsible for securing spaces for group meetings, doing outreach to raise awareness about the group and recruit new members, and seeking out new resources and activities for participants. Applicants should have some previous experience working with youth and an interest in the issues and challenges refugee and immigrant youth face when moving to a new community.
LOCATION: Tukwila, WA
TIME COMMITMENT: Group meets for one hour weekly + weekly planning and travel time. More hours required on activity days. Position starts June 2013. Minimum 3 month commitment.
ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS:
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Increase participation in TRUE by conducting outreach in local schools, community organizations, service providers, etc.
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Help secure a space for weekly meetings and coordinate other group logistics
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Help plan and prepare for weekly discussion topics
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Seek out opportunities for activities in the community for TRUE participants and organize occasional trips/activities
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Facilitate a supportive environment and help ensure participants feel safe and respected
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Be receptive to the needs of participants and adjust group goals and activities as needed
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Communicate with IRC staff regularly about group needs and activities; IRC staff members must vet all materials used and approve activities in the community.
REQUIREMENTS:
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Due to the age-range and focus of the group, we are seeking young adult women for this volunteer position
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Previous experience volunteering or working with youth required
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Experience with intercultural communication and/or working with refugee or immigrant communities preferred
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Comfortable leading activities and facilitating group discussions
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Ability to work independently and as a team member
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Good communication and listening skills are a must
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Willing to adhere to IRC volunteer policies and requirements (such as completing a background check and tracking/reporting volunteer activities and hours
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