Scope of Service

The IRC in Des Moines seeks volunteers to work with resettlement staff to assist refugees during their first 90 days in the United States. Volunteers will assist the case manager to complete required services to help clients integrate into their new communities.

Responsibilities May Include

  • Assist Case Manger to train clients to ride DART bus from their residence to the IRC office, doctor’s office, grocery store, and other important locations. No prior experience riding the bus is necessary, training will be provided
  • Accompany client to register for English language classes. Assist client in learning to take the bus to class if needed
  • Take client to DOT to apply for State ID
  • Register refugee youth for school 
  • Display sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of refugee clients. Respect their beliefs and values 
  • Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy

Time Commitment 

Flexible, but at least 2 hours-4 hours/week Monday – Friday, typically between 9am and 5pm.

Duration

Minimum 3 months 

Languages Desired but not Required 

Swahili, Dari / Farsi, Pashto, French, and Spanish.

How to Apply

Go to https://irc-global.my.salesforce-sites.com/volunteer and complete the application. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to [email protected]. Once your application is received, a staff member will contact you for a brief interview. You will then receive a link to complete a background check. Finally, you will be contacted to attend a required volunteer training.