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.
- Medical, Social Security, educational, and other such appointments typically take place Monday-Friday during normal business hours.
- A typical appointment takes approximately 2-4 hours.
Responsibilities: The volunteer will assist the caseworkers in transporting refugees to various appointments. This could include;
- Picking up clients from their homes and taking them to appointments; Then returning them home.
- Advocating for clients when they arrive at the appointment, and staying with them to ensure that they have completed the appointment.
- Working with caseworkers to assess the needs of the clients and manage language barriers
- Being a mentor as clients adjust to life in the U.S
Skills & Qualifications: Volunteers must be able and willing to transport clients in their personal vehicle; Must have a reliable vehicle and a valid Driver's License; Must have no major driving violations in the past 5 years. 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.
