Survivors of Torture Intern

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 45 countries and 25 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home. Domestically, our 25 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 WORK: The Sacramento IRC’s Survivors of Torture (SOT) project provides targeted services and assistance to refugee and immigrant survivors of torture. The SOT Intern will provide trauma-informed case management to address the barriers and ongoing needs of Afghan survivors of torture. This is an exciting opportunity to have an impact by extending wellness services and enabling survivors to rebuild their lives post victimization. This position will also include the implementation of educational programming, aimed at promoting safety and security in refugee communities.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

General responsibilities could include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Provide direct services and case management support to Afghan survivors of torture, in close collaboration with Client Advocates. This includes traveling throughout the service area—primarily Sacramento, Yolo, and Placer counties—to facilitate and coordinate care;
• Assist Case Managers with organizing and maintaining client records, ensuring accurate documentation, and supporting timely updates in program data and reporting systems;
• Support survivors of torture who are also victims of crime, particularly in cases involving law enforcement agencies and family law attorneys;
• Facilitate client workshops in-person and online, delivered in Dari and, if possible, Pashto.
• Contribute to the development of culturally appropriate outreach and educational materials tailored to the Afghan community;
• Identify local community resources offering trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive, and linguistically-accessible services for Afghan survivors of torture and traumatized populations;
• Participate actively in case consultations and professional development trainings;
• Provide interpretation services, as needed, to support effective communication with clients;
• Adhere to all agency policies, procedures, and confidentiality protocols;
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the program’s overall mission.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Prior experience working in multicultural environments and demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with individuals from diverse backgrounds is strongly preferred;
• Fluency in written and spoken English and Dari is required; proficiency in Pashto is a strong asset;
• Previous experience in case management and/or victim assistance is preferred;
• Minimum of one year of relevant professional experience, ideally within a social service or nonprofit setting serving vulnerable populations;
• Solid understanding of trauma and the ability to provide support in crisis situations with empathy and professionalism;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to deliver presentations and facilitate group discussions;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and experience with data entry, tracking, and reporting systems is required;
• Strong commitment to collaborative work and cross-functional teamwork across IRC programs;
• Driving is required; must possess a valid driver’s license, proof of active auto insurance, and access to reliable transportation; comfort with transporting clients as needed is essential; work-related driving is eligible for reimbursement at the charitable mileage rate;
• Availability during IRC’s standard business hours (Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM) is required. Occasionally may be asked to assist with outreach events and educational workshops during weekends.

Standard of Professional Conduct

The IRC and the IRC workers must adhere to the values and principles outlined in the IRC Way – our Code of Conduct. These are Integrity, Service, Accountability, and Equality.

TO APPLY: Complete an online application at https://x.gldn.io/e/AABWtXY9q0b. Please submit a cover letter (including desired position, availability and motivation for applying) and resume. You will be contacted for a virtual initial interview and next steps. All volunteer and internships are part-time, unpaid positions and require a background check.

If your school requires any documentation or agreement for a volunteer or internship position, please reach out to GetInvolvedIRCSacramento@rescue.org prior to the initial interview.