ESOL Intern - UNPAID

International Rescue Committee•Richmond, VA

49d

About The Position

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world's largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), at work in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future and strengthen their communities. A force for humanity, IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity and hope to millions. If you're a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, come join us in positively impacting the lives of millions of people world-wide for a better future. BACKGROUND: Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee is a leading, non-sectarian, non-profit organization providing emergency relief, protection, rehabilitation assistance, resettlement services, and advocacy for refugees and victims of crisis or violent conflict. Domestically, our 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency. SCOPE OF ROLE: Developing skills and confidence in speaking, reading, and writing in English is crucial for new arrivals’ success in Richmond. These skills expand resource accessibility, employment opportunities, and much more. The English Language Training Intern will assist the Adult Education Specialist in the planning and provision of English language training classes to the refugees and immigrants that IRC Richmond serves. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: The English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Intern will: Learn how to manage classes and supporting services within the established requirements, to provide the best possible service to vulnerable populations. Develop critical thinking skills, clients service skills, and cross-global education and social work skills. Learn about the IRC locally and globally, the available services to refugees and ORR-eligible clients in Richmond, Virginia.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate level studies in education, social work, international relations, social sciences, or related field preferred.
Respect and awareness of global backgrounds and experiences, and a desire to help refugees adjust to life in the U.S.
Patience, understanding, and flexibility
Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
Effective communication skills, especially in a cross-global environment
Engaged in learning about the IRC (mission, philosophy, global work, and local efforts) and willing to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies
Proficiency in more than one language preferred but not required

Responsibilities

Assist IRC staff with the enrollment, coordination, and implementation of classes, including: Contacting students to confirm their availability to attend classes.
Navigating client barriers to education.
Differentiating and scaffolding instruction to students individually or in small groups.
Communicating with local stakeholders and adult education services to connect students to appropriate classes.
Support teachers in the preparation of the student materials for the classes.
Coordinate with volunteers to ensure proper coverage is in place for adult education classes, including childcare volunteers; cover the childcare volunteer role as needed.
Collect data to support educational initiatives and encourage student success.
Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy, practice respect and consideration of clients’ varied backgrounds and experiences, respect client beliefs and values.
Other support as needed.

Benefits

10 sick days
10 US holidays
20-25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure
medical insurance starting at $143 per month
dental starting at $6.50 per month
vision starting at $5 per month
FSA for healthcare and commuter costs
a 403b retirement savings plans with immediately vested matching
disability & life insurance
an Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support counseling and care in times of crisis and mental health struggles.