Job Opportunity: Spring Internship in Housing and Logistics with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) – Tucson, AZ
Position: Housing and Logistics Spring Intern
Location: Tucson, Arizona, USA
Category: Social Work & Community Development
Internship Type: Part-Time, In-Person
Compensation: Unpaid
Open to Expatriates: No
About IRC:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a globally recognized humanitarian organization, established in 1933 with the guidance of Albert Einstein. The IRC provides aid across 40+ countries and 29 U.S. cities to people affected by crisis, working to restore health, safety, education, economic stability, and empowerment. Dedicated to lasting impact, IRC staff are committed to bringing hope, dignity, and a brighter future to millions. Join us to help shape a positive future for vulnerable populations around the world.
Position Overview:
The Housing and Logistics Intern will collaborate closely with the Housing and Logistics Coordinator, apartment managers, and incoming refugee families to support both pre-arrival and post-arrival services. This role involves directly assisting refugee families in acclimating to apartment living in the U.S., understanding housing rights and responsibilities, and performing various housing-related tasks. Additionally, the intern will gain hands-on experience in community outreach and learn about the complexities of refugee resettlement.
Note: This position is unpaid and requires in-person availability.
Key Responsibilities:
- In-Home Housing Education: Conduct housing orientation sessions in new families’ homes, working with interpreters as needed.
- Housing Support: Assist with essential housing tasks such as maintenance requests, money orders, rent, and utility bill payments.
- Provision of Necessities: Procure and deliver necessary household items and food for new arrivals.
- Apartment Setup: Prepare apartments for incoming refugee families.
- Transition Support: Guide families in applying for subsidized housing, including HUD, Section 8, and City of Tucson Public Housing programs.
- Resource Development: Enhance and create housing education materials for families.
- Community and Apartment Relations: Collaborate with the Housing and Logistics Coordinator to foster new relationships with local housing providers and apartment managers.
- Documentation: Maintain accurate records of all services provided, utilizing multiple databases and tracking tools.
Qualifications:
- Education: Currently pursuing a degree in social work or related experience in a similar field.
- Skills: Strong intercultural communication skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
- Confidentiality: Understanding of client confidentiality and the ability to uphold strict privacy standards.
- Driving Requirements: Valid driver’s license, access to a personal vehicle, insurance, and a clean driving record.
- Commitment: Preference given to candidates able to commit to multiple semesters.
Commitment Details:
- Summer Term: Minimum 20 hours per week for 3 months.
- Fall/Spring Terms: Minimum 10 hours per week for 16 weeks.
- Availability: Primarily Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Preference given to those who can commit for multiple terms.
Professional Conduct:
All IRC employees must adhere to the values outlined in the IRC Way, which includes Integrity, Service, Accountability, and Equality. The IRC is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment and prohibits all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. The organization aims to increase the representation of women and individuals from communities it serves, including underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.
Supervisor: Felicia Napier