BACKGROUND:
Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a leading nonsectarian, voluntary organization providing relief, protection and resettlement services for refugees and victims of oppression or violent conflict. The IRC in Wichita resettles approximately 300 newly-arrived refugees per year and provides numerous program services to assist the refugee from their arrival through citizenship.
Time Commitment:
- This volunteer position is an on-call opportunity.
- Housing set-ups typically take place Monday-Friday during normal business hours.
- A typical housing set-up takes approximately 2-4 hours.
Responsibilities:
The volunteer will assist the case manager to prepare and furnish apartments for new refugee families. This could include;
- Traveling with IRC staff to pick up and drop off furniture, supplies, and food to the new home.
- It could also include setting up inside the apartment to unpack, assemble and arrange items to create a welcoming home (IKEA bed frames, for example).
- Washing and putting dishes away
- Setting up other household items so they are ready to go upon client arrival
Skills & Qualifications:
Volunteers must be able and willing to lift and carry up to 75 pounds; must be culturally sensitive and respectful of diverse backgrounds; able to collaborate with others and work well as part of a team; able to work independently in a fast-paced environment; able to handle client information confidentially.
