Our Casework Services focus on assessing and addressing client needs, providing orientation, connecting to public benefits and supportive services, and may provide limited financial aid, if eligible. Volunteers and Interns primarily work in the office with some field work for outreach or direct services. Under the supervision of the caseworker, volunteers aid in the client’s personal development toward security and self-sufficiency.
COMMITMENT:
Volunteer: Minimum 4 hours a week for at least 4 full months
Intern: Minimum 15 hours a week for at least 4 full months or 240 hours total
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Identify and create partnerships with community organizations to refer clients for care in health, housing, or employment development
- Research community groups for specific demographics to connect clients for further social assistance, integration, and translation services
- Represent the IRC at community events to raise awareness on the issues of refugees, asylees, and victims of trafficking and the IRC’s services
- Coordinate essential donations for clients in need with the Volunteer and Donations Coordinator
- Assist clients with applications for public benefits programs. This could include steps such as screening for eligibility, preparing documents, coordinating transportation, assisting with paperwork and interviews. Translation services may be required.
- Assist with providing cultural orientation and long-term resource referrals
- Manage case files, notes, and receipts of direct assistance
- Other related tasks as needed
REQUIRED SKILLS:
- All volunteers and interns must be 18+ years of age and clear a background check
- Case management and trauma-informed or survivor-centered experience preferred
- Background or previous study and interest in human rights, forced migration, and/or human trafficking preferred
- Excellent adaptability and communication skills
- Proven ability to work with consideration and respect for cross-cultural differences
- Strong computer skills in MS Office (i.e. Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher)
- Dependability and initiative to work with minimal supervision
- Strong proficiency in a foreign language, particularly Spanish, highly preferred
- Driving ability (i.e. reliable vehicle, driver’s license, auto insurance and clean driving record) preferred
REWARDS:
- Hands-on experience dealing with the practical aspects of helping survivors of forced migration regain control of their lives and become self-sufficient
- Direct experience in advocacy, immigration policies, and social work
- Meaningful contribution to the Refugee’s Welcome movement in the Bay Area
- Comprehensive overview and experience with resettlement, immigration procedures, education, and economic development for displaced people and special immigrants
- Daily interaction and learning experience with people from a diverse range of cultures
- Sharpen skills in administration, networking, and developing resources in a nonprofit
APPLICATION PROCESS:
o Apply: https://rescueglobal.secure.force.com/volunteer/
o Complete a phone screening with the Volunteer Coordination Team
o Complete a Department Interview with department(s) of interest
o Pass a background check ($40 fee)
o Complete orientation and submit requested paperwork
o Begin your service!