Navigating Internship Opportunities with Refugee and Immigrant Support Organizations

Securing an internship with organizations dedicated to refugee and immigrant support can be a valuable step for individuals passionate about humanitarian work and social justice. These internships offer hands-on experience, skill development, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable populations. This article provides a comprehensive overview of internship opportunities, focusing on requirements, application processes, and the diverse experiences available within this field.

General Requirements for Internships

Internships within refugee and immigrant support organizations are generally available to current undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates. Some organizations also extend volunteer opportunities to non-students. Essential qualities for candidates include:

A strong passion for working with refugees and other immigrant populations.
Excellent communication skills, both interpersonal and with supervisors.
Organizational skills and attention to detail.
The ability to work effectively both in a team and independently, often in a fast-paced environment.

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The application process typically involves several key steps:

Online Application: Applying directly to the internship position posting online, including completing all required and optional fields.
Resume and Cover Letter: Submitting a resume and a tailored cover letter. The cover letter should clearly state the desired position, availability, and motivation for applying. This includes specifying the number of hours available each week and the days and times of availability.
Background Checks: Completing background checks is a standard requirement to ensure the safety and security of the clients being served.

Diverse Internship Opportunities

Internship opportunities vary widely, depending on the organization and its specific programs. Some common areas include:

Reception and Placement (R&P) Program

These internships support newly arrived refugees during their initial resettlement in the United States. Interns work alongside caseworkers to orient newcomers to American life and connect them with essential community services. Duties include direct client services, case file documentation, scheduling appointments, and arranging transportation.

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Legal Internships

Law students can gain valuable experience with legislation, policy, and Congressional oversight through legal internships. These roles require strong legal research, writing, and oral communication skills. Responsibilities may include performing legislative and policy research, drafting memoranda, and providing support to staff members.

General Internship Duties

Interns may provide policy and administrative support to staff members, including answering phones, compiling press clips, attending briefings, performing research, and drafting written materials.

Spotlight on Specific Organizations

Several prominent organizations offer internship opportunities in refugee and immigrant support. These include:

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

The IRC is a global organization that responds to humanitarian crises, helping people affected by conflict and disaster to survive and rebuild their lives. IRC internships offer opportunities to gain field office experience, interact with refugee clients, and learn about programs and benefits available during the initial resettlement period. Interns may also assist with coordinating arrival logistics, preparing housing, and tracking data to improve service provision.

U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI)

Founded in 1911, USCRI is a national leader in protecting the rights and addressing the needs of persons in forced or voluntary migration. USCRI internships focus on direct services, advocacy, and partnerships with communities across the United States. The Employment Programs Department at USCRI North Carolina offers internships in job readiness training, employment placement, and employer engagement.

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UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees)

UNHCR offers internships at various locations, including its headquarters in Geneva, Global Service Centres, and field offices. These internships provide opportunities to contribute to community-based protection teams, work on procurement processes for core relief items, and support the incorporation of refugee voices into protection work.

Amica Center for Immigrant Rights

Amica Center for Immigrant Rights offers internships with a focus on dismantling racist institutions and systems that harm immigrant children and adults. Interns support clients, translate court documents, and participate in advocacy efforts. Scholarship opportunities may also be available to help cover tuition and fees.

House Foreign Affairs Committee

The House Foreign Affairs Committee offers internships during the Spring, Fall, and Summer sessions. Interns provide policy and administrative support to staff members, including legislative and policy research, drafting memoranda, and other written materials.

Essential Skills and Qualifications

In addition to the general requirements mentioned earlier, specific internships may require additional skills and qualifications:

Digital Literacy: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, and Word) and the ability to learn new software.
Language Skills: Fluency in languages such as Dari, Haitian Creole, Pashto, or Spanish is often a plus.
Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle may be required for positions involving transportation of clients or materials.
Physical Requirements: The ability to lift and carry items, sometimes weighing 50+ lbs, may be necessary for setting up homes and supporting new client arrivals.

Compensation and Benefits

Internships with refugee and immigrant support organizations are often unpaid. However, some organizations may offer stipends or per diem reimbursement to help offset the costs of food and travel. For example, the IRC in Silver Spring may offer per diem reimbursement at a rate of $15/day.

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UNHCR provides an allowance for internships, with the amount varying based on the duty station. They may also reimburse interns for return travel costs.

Commitment and Time Availability

Internships typically require a commitment of 15 to 35 hours per week, during regular business hours. The duration is usually 3-4 months. Organizations are often flexible with accommodating student schedules, including time off for midterms and school holidays.

Creating a Supportive and Inclusive Environment

Many organizations prioritize creating a welcoming, mission-driven, and collaborative work environment. They value teamwork, respect, inclusivity, and continuous learning. Management structures are often supportive and approachable, encouraging initiative, innovation, and professional growth.

UNHCR, for example, seeks to sustain and strengthen diversity to ensure equal opportunities and an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.

Professional Standards and Ethics

Interns are expected to adhere to the core values and principles outlined in the organization's standards for professional conduct. These standards typically include integrity, service, equality, and accountability. Organizations also enforce policies on safeguarding, conflicts of interest, fiscal integrity, and reporting wrongdoing.

Making a Difference

Interning with a refugee or immigrant support organization offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause. By providing direct services, supporting advocacy efforts, and assisting with administrative tasks, interns play a vital role in helping vulnerable populations rebuild their lives with safety, dignity, and self-sufficiency.

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