Community Services Internship

International Institute of New England•Boston, MA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The International Institute of New England (IINE) has been creating opportunities for refugees and immigrants to succeed for over 100 years through resettlement, education, employment support, and pathways to citizenship. With locations in Boston and Lowell, Massachusetts, and Manchester, New Hampshire, IINE serves thousands of individuals and families annually, including those displaced by political instability, violence, and climate crises; survivors of human trafficking; and unaccompanied children joining family members in New England. As one of the region's oldest and largest organizations, IINE plays a significant role in shaping public understanding and support for our newest neighbors. IINE offers internships to students, graduate students, and recent graduates with demonstrated interest or experience in supporting refugee and immigrant populations. Each internship includes an educational component for contextualizing experience and reflecting on service. All internships are unpaid and align with the US School semester system. Fall Internships run from Mid-September through Mid-December 2026. First consideration is given to applicants who can commit at least 20 hours per week. Exceptions are made on a case-by-case basis. Slots fill quickly, so early applications are encouraged. This internship is on-site, and individuals near the Boston area who can commute to the office are preferred. The Community Services and Resettlement team provides case management and other services to newly arrived refugees, asylees, and other clients for up to one year after arrival. Staff coordinate the arrival, integration, and social services for refugees, asylees, Haitian entrants, victims of human trafficking, and other clients. Interns will assist by checking in with clients by phone, helping them access local transportation and public services, and ensuring they understand available resources through cultural orientation workshops.

Requirements

Interest in international, refugee, asylee, and/or immigrant issues
Patience speaking with non-native English speakers/non-English speakers
Professionalism, discretion, and maturity in dealing with confidential information
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Highly organized with great attention to detail
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint

Nice To Haves

Experience interacting with social welfare agencies highly desirable
Experience advocating on behalf of others
Language skills in Spanish preferred

Responsibilities

Assist staff with case management responsibilities including: Applying for temporary financial assistance (TAFDC, SNAP benefits, SSDI/SSI)
Assisting clients with school enrollment process of their children
Advocating for health and social services
Assisting clients with scheduling medical appointments
Assisting clients with affordable housing applications
Accompanying clients to the Department of Transitional Assistance, health clinics, and Social Security office
Helping to coordinate referrals to a wide variety of social services
Conduct cultural and workforce orientation workshops for recently arrived refugees
Review and update client records at Case Specialist’s direction including case notes
Provide general administrative assistance to the Community Services team