Scope of work: The IRC in Iowa seeks volunteers to support employment readiness programming, where newly arrived refugees learn about finding employment and working in the United States. Support may include interview preparation, how to look for jobs, how to maintain a job, types of jobs in the United States, and skills needed to advance in your job. Support may be offered on an individual basis or through group classes.
Time Commitment: Individual meetings will be scheduled based on the mutual availability of the volunteer and client. Classes typically take place during the week typically between 9am and 5pm, for 2-3 hours at a time.
Responsibilities:
- Complete required training on employment readiness content, either in person or virtually
- Facilitate small to large group instruction using provided curriculum, which includes teaching clients about job interviews, finding employment, and how to be successful in their current jobs.
- Work with interpreters to effectively deliver instructional content to multilingual students.
- Provide follow-up for individuals needing more assistance after class.
- Help develop new resources to introduce newly arrived refugees to work life in the United States.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Experience working with diverse populations and English language learners.
- Proven ability to demonstrate patience, understanding, and flexibility.
- Experience in fostering a warm and welcoming environment in group settings.
- A willingness to work with, and take direction from, program staff.
- Experience creating and implementing curriculum desired but not required.
- Languages desired but not required: French, Spanish, Dari/Farsi, Pashto, Kiswahili or Kinyarwanda.
- Willing to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies, including current Covid-19 policies (must be fully vaccinated, meaning first 2 shots. Boosters recommended.)