LOCATION
Oakland, CA / East Bay, CA / Hybrid

COMMITMENT
Volunteers: Minimum 4 hours per week 
Interns: Minimum 15 hours per week for at least 4 full months, or 240 hours total 

 

Scope of Work

The Afghan Newcomer Support Program (ANSP) provides essential services to Afghan Newcomers and other eligible individuals to support their integration and stability in the United States. This includes support in navigating social services, housing resources, public benefits, and community connections. The Afghan Program Support Volunteer / Intern will assist with client outreach, casework support, administrative tasks, and interpretation/translation to help ensure Afghan clients receive timely, culturally responsive services. Dari/Pashto language fluency is required.
 

BACKGROUND

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in over 45 countries and 29 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home. Domestically, our 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.
 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Client Outrreach and Engagement

  • Assist in outreach to Afghan community members by phone, email, or in person to share information about IRC services
  • Help schedule appointments and provide interpretation during intake and follow-up meetings
  • Support distribution of flyers and updates in Afghan to increase program visibility and engagement

Casework and Client Support

  • Assist caseworkers with client follow-up, appointment reminders, and service coordination
  • Provide interpretation and translation support during appointments and document completion
  • Help track client progress and update client files with notes and documentation

Administrative Support and Document Management

  • Support with organizing case files and uploading required documents to digital systems
  • Assist with data entry and maintaining accurate service records for Afghan clients
  • Help prepare resource materials and outreach documents in English and Dari/Pashto

Program Support and Coordination

  • Participate in ANSP team meetings and assist in tracking deliverables and client milestones
  • Collaborate with staff on outreach events and support logistics as needed

Translation and Language Access

  • Translate written materials (flyers, instructions, checklists) between English and Dari/Pashto
  • Provide in-person or virtual interpretation as needed to support client communication
     

REQUIREMENTS

  • Fluency in Dari/Pashto is a must
  • Ability to assist with case notes, documentation, and client file organization
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills: the ability to work sensitively with clients, partners, and colleagues in a cross cultural, multi-disciplinary environment
  • Solid organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, set priorities, and effectively manage time and meet deadlines
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and Zoom
  • Cultural humility and desire to help and work with newcomer communities
     

This position reports to the Resettlement Coordinator

  • This is an unpaid volunteer / intern opportunity
  • Acceptance is contingent upon clearing a $40 background check
  • Internships are available for current college students starting their second year, graduate students, and graduates within 2 years of graduation.
  • Course credit is available if the student coordinates with their university and confirms the appropriate paperwork with the IRC Volunteer Coordinator. 
     

STANDARD OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

The IRC and the IRC workers must adhere to the values and principles outlined in the IRC Way – our Code of Conduct. These are Integrity, Service, Accountability, and Equality.
 

Application Process

Fill out an application online and include your resume and cover letter. If you are a good fit for this opportunity, someone will be in touch with you. 

Please note we have three onboarding cohorts throughout the year. We recommend you apply 1-2 months before the start of your desired cohort.

  • Fall: Starts in September
  • Spring: Starts in February
  • Summer: Starts in May-June