About the Wichita Immigration Department
Immigration is a unique area of law where for decades, non-lawyers have been able to seek authorization (accreditation) to represent individuals in immigration proceedings before administrative agencies. Under federal regulations, several individuals—including non-lawyers—may engage in the practice of immigration law. Organizations that have been “recognized” by the Department of Justice (DOJ) can seek authorization on behalf of an individual to be “accredited” to practice immigration law. The immigration volunteer will work with the DOJ accredited representative on immigration matters related to the needs of the clients and community.
Roles
• Provide general (not individualized) information on areas of law and procedure, such as eligibility requirements for adjustment of status or naturalization and application procedures.
• Complete application forms based on information provided by clients in a pro-se workshop or after an individual eligibility determination has been completed by an accredited representative.
• Notify clients of follow-up information such as receipt of appointment notices, requests for evidence, and oath ceremonies.
• Respond to requests for case status updates from clients (e.g., timelines for interviews or decisions on cases).
• Assist with case management tasks, such as entering client information into ETO and updating client casefiles.
• Conduct intake and/or completing service agreements (see below for additional guidelines on direct communications with clients.
• Perform regular and periodic reviews of DHS issued policy, announcements of changes to rules and regulations to keep up to date on the latest DHS directives that impact the populations served by IRC.
• Facilitate the development of training materials for clients; develop program materials and contribute to standardization of programming.
How to become a volunteer:
- Attend one of the IRC in Wichita’s volunteer information meetings. For information about dates and times of these meetings please send an inquiry to VolunteerKS@Rescue.org. Attending one of these meetings is mandatory to proceed with your volunteer application.
- Submit your volunteer application online at: Step 1: IRC Wichita Volunteer and Intern Application
- Your materials will be reviewed to determine your eligibility and qualification.
- If selected for an interview you will be called by IRC’s volunteer coordinator.
- Successful interviews are proceeded by a background check. Your volunteer or intern placement will only be confirmed after your background check and references have been cleared. The IRC encourages but does not require that you donate $40 to go towards your background check to help offset the cost of your background check.
- You will be contacted to attend an orientation. All interns and volunteers must attend an orientation before moving forward with their volunteer application.