News from Denver, CO

Moving to a new country can be an overwhelming and isolating experience for anyone. Refugees, who are forced to flee their homes due to conflict, violence and persecution, face particularly acute cultural, emotional and financial challenges during the resettlement process. IRC's H.O.M.E. Program pairs volunteer groups with refugee families to help ease their transition into life in the U.S. through mentorship and financial and material support.

Support one-on-one as a mentor and help ease a refugee family or individual’s transition into their new community. Mentors will focus on a refugee’s English acquisition, socialization of American culture, and integration into the local community. Based on each client’s needs and relationship, mentors and mentees can cook together, schedule follow-up medical appointments, visit local attractions, parks, farmer’s markets, the library and museums. Mentors may also support in opening bank accounts, learning where to pay bills, navigating transportation, and more. Mentors and mentees will establish boundaries and expectations in an initial meeting with an IRC staff member and interpreter in order to better understand needs.

The International Rescue Committee in Denver offers a variety of unpaid internship opportunities throughout the year. Prospective interns must go through the volunteer process and should be currently enrolled in an educational institution or a recent graduate.