Refugee Services Casework Intern – Make an Impact

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world’s largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations, operating in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities to help people survive, reclaim control of their future, and strengthen their communities.

IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity, and hope to millions. If you’re a solutions‑driven, passionate change-maker, you can join us in positively impacting the lives of millions worldwide for a better future.

The Preferred Communities (PC) Program provides case management services to the most vulnerable refugee groups who face systemic challenges when navigating the U.S. systems. Three programs fall under PC:
Intensive Case Management, Supplemental Case Management, and OIRS. Interns play a key role in supporting clients by accessing needed benefits and services during their internship. Interns are assigned to a PC Case Manager to support their specific caseload with client‑facing responsibilities (e.g., attending medical appointments, providing guidance on public transportation) and administrative duties (e.g., referrals for additional services, file maintenance).

• Assist clients in accessing benefits and services throughout the internship period.
• Attend medical appointments with clients and provide transportation guidance.
• Conduct referrals for additional services as needed.
• Maintain accurate client files and documentation.
• Support caseload management under the supervision of a PC Case Manager.

• Learn about refugee resettlement and refugee social services.
• Develop creative problem‑solving and client‑facing skills.
• Strengthen caseload management experience through direct client support.

• Volunteers must be based in the U.S.
• Interns must be based in the U.S. and be enrolled in a post‑secondary institution or have graduated from a post‑secondary institution within the last two years.
• Preferred languages (not required):
  Spanish, Arabic, Ukrainian, Russian, Haitian Creole, French, Dari, Pashto.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations or in case management is appreciated.
• Undergraduate or graduate level studies in social sciences, international relations, or a related field.
• Strong desire to support refugees rebuilding their lives in NYC.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain high attention to detail.
• Demonstrate ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
• Effective communication skills in a collaborative team setting.
• Adaptability and willingness to take initiative.
• Competency in Microsoft Office and file management.
• Interest in learning about IRC history, philosophy, global work, and local efforts.
• Willingness to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies.

All International Rescue Committee workers must adhere to the core values and principles outlined in the IRC Way - Standards for Professional Conduct. These standards include Integrity, Service, Equality, and Accountability. The IRC enforces policies on safeguarding, conflicts of interest, fiscal integrity, reporting wrongdoing, and protection from retaliation. The organization commits to preventive measures and corrective actions to create a safe environment.

• 10 sick days; 10 U.S. holidays; 20–25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure.
• Medical insurance starting at $163 per month.
• Dental coverage starting at $6.50 per month.
• Vision coverage starting at $5 per month.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and commuter costs.
• 403(b) retirement savings plan with immediately vested matching.
• Disability and life insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program for counseling and support.

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.