Resettlement (PIR) Volunteer

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 volunteer will work closely with the Program of Initial Resettlement (PIR), which supports newly arriving refugees and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders, in alignment with the International Rescue Committee's mission to help people survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. The program provides time-limited, intensive support during the critical first phase of resettlement, assisting clients in navigating essential systems and stabilizing in their new communities. PIR services are delivered for a minimum of 30 days and may continue for up to 90 days following a client’s arrival at their destination in the United States. The program focuses on comprehensive case management and supportive services that promote safety, access to basic needs, and early self-sufficiency. Through coordinated, client-centered assistance, PIR lays the foundation for successful long-term integration.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

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

• Support PIR caseworkers in providing initial resettlement services to newly arriving refugees and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders;
• Assist with airport reception and transportation of clients to temporary accommodation or permanent housing. Transitions from hotels to permanent apartments, including move-in coordination and basic logistics;
• Assist with furnishing apartments by coordinating purchases, deliveries, and setup of essential household items such as beds, mattresses, dining tables, chairs, and basic kitchen supplies;
• Help with light furniture assembly (e.g., beds, tables) and preparing apartments to be safe and livable upon client arrival;
• Support initial grocery shopping.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Driving is required; must possess a valid driver’s license, proof of active auto insurance, access to reliable transportation, and be willing to drive clients; work-related driving is eligible for reimbursement at the charitable mileage rate;
• Ability to lift up to 30lbs safely;
• Must have driver’s license, vehicle, auto insurance and clean driving record;
• Strong interest in working directly with refugee and immigrant communities;
• Compassionate, patient, and comfortable guiding clients through complex processes;
• Punctuality, excellent time management skills, and a flexible schedule;
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding client information;
• Availability during IRC’s standard business hours (Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM) is required.

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.