Refugee Barrier Reduction Intern (Summer 2026)

About the role

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is seeking a Summer 2026 intern to support its economic empowerment program for refugees and humanitarian migrants in the United States. You will help reduce barriers to employment and self‑sufficiency by assisting clients with applications, training, and outreach.

Key responsibilities

• Assist clients in completing and submitting applications for childcare vouchers, phone services, and other resources that remove employment barriers.
• Deliver training sessions on public transportation, childcare options, digital literacy, and public benefits.
• Support Job Application Hours, guiding clients through the U.S. job‑search process and submitting applications.
• Coordinate with economic empowerment service teams to track client progress and address barrier‑reduction needs.
• Facilitate client outings to banks, libraries, and other community resources, respecting office status.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the RTCP Program Coordinator.

Required profile

• Self‑motivated, able to work independently and adapt quickly in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including cross‑cultural communication.
• Strong interest in refugee and asylee issues.
• Minimum three‑month commitment.
• Language abilities in Spanish, Amharic, Dari, Pashto, French, Kinyarwanda, or Swahili are a plus.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hands‑on experience with IRC casework and workforce programs.
• Opportunities to develop cross‑cultural communication and adult coaching techniques.
• Insight into refugee and asylee integration processes in the United States.