Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a leading nonsectarian, non-governmental organization providing relief, protection and resettlement services for refugees and other persons fleeing war, persecution and violent conflict. At the Suburban Washington Resettlement Center in Silver Spring, Maryland, our IRC Washington, DC Regional Office (IRC/DC) serves refugees, asylees and victims of human trafficking who live in southern Maryland and Washington, DC.
The United States has a long tradition of offering refuge to those fleeing persecution and war. Last year, the International Rescue Committee's 22 regional offices helped resettle over 7,000 newly arrived refugees in the U.S. and provided services to 24,000 refugees, asylees and victims of human trafficking. IRC staff members and volunteers believe that refugees' greatest resources are themselves. We help them translate their skills, interests and past experiences into assets that are valuable in their new communities.
Through a network of staff members and volunteers we provide access to the tools of self-reliance: housing, job placement and employment skills, clothing, medical attention, education, English-language classes and community orientation. In addition to integrating refugees into the U.S., the IRC's resettlement network provides comprehensive immigration services to assist refugees and asylees on their path to becoming permanent residents or U.S. citizens. The IRC also provides specialized services to victims of human trafficking in the U.S. men, women and children who have been forced or coerced into modern-day slavery.
The first job is an essential element in helping refugees become economically self-sufficient. The Economic Integration VISTA will increase client access to employment opportunities through the cultivation of new employer relationships, the development of comprehensive tracking systems, and increased client access to community resources. The VISTA will work closely with our Employment Specialists to develop effective outreach strategies and to organize resources into cohesive materials for both clients and staff to refer to. All in all, the VISTA will play a vital role in our client's path to self sufficiency through increasing access to employment.
To submit your application, please visit My AmeriCorps to register and apply.
