Public Benefits Intern
Check with your school's Internship Coordinator BEFORE accepting the hiring offer to determine if this position satisfies the criteria for receiving academic credit.
BACKGROUND: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in over 40 countries and 28 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home.
SCOPE OF INTERN WORK: The Public Assistance Intern will assist clients in the Resettlement Department to navigate the NYC public assistance system. The intern will support clients in understanding the different public assistance programs and benefits as well as teaching clients how to apply, maintain and troubleshoot their public assistance cases. The goal for this internship is to assist clients in becoming self-sufficient such that they can navigate public assistance independently. The intern will also perform a series of clerical and administrative duties to ensure client files are kept up to date.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
•Work with clients in navigating public assistance (SNAP, cash assistance and other programs) on a group and individual level.
•Coordinate with Resettlement caseworkers in connecting and assisting clients.
•Maintain accurate and clear client case notes using IRC systems, including ETO
•Contribute to clients’ ability to thrive in their communities through a strong emphasis on client empowerment.
•Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy.
•Display sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of clients. Respect their beliefs and values.
•Provide translation and interpretation when necessary.
•Other related duties as assigned.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
1.Student will learn about refugee resettlement and refugee social services
2.Student will develop problem solving and client service skills
3.Student will learn how to teach and convey information effectively in a remote setting
REQUIREMENTS:
•Strong understanding of NYC’s public assistance programs and benefits, or prior experience with programs and benefits from other states.
•At minimum, currently completing undergraduate level studies in social sciences, international relations or a related field.
•Availability to work 15 hours per week at minimum.
•Languages desired but not required: Spanish, Pashto, Dari, French and/or Arabic.
•Strong desire to help refugees rebuild their lives in New York.
•Ability to work independently, exercise good judgement, and have high attention to detail.
•Competency in Microsoft Office, data tracking, and file management
•Effective communication skills.
•Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
•Patience, understanding, flexibility, and positive attitude.
•Willing to learn about IRC history, philosophy, global work, and local efforts.
•Willing to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies.
This position reports jointly to the Resettlement Department Manager and Resettlement Caseworkers for technical assistance and training.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.