Economic Empowerment Intern

Job Description

Economic Empowerment Intern | The International Rescue Committee (IRC)

The Tone:
This is an internship at The International Rescue Committee (IRC), located in Richmond, VA. The IRC is a leading international humanitarian organization, founded at the call of Albert Einstein, dedicated to responding to the world’s worst crises and restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. This role is pivotal in supporting refugee families in the greater Richmond area, empowering them with essential tools for economic self-sufficiency, digital and financial literacy, and successful community integration, helping them to reclaim control of their future and strengthen their new communities.

The TL;DR
• Role: Internship
• Type: Part-time, Temporary
• Location: Richmond, VA (On-site)

• Team: Economic Empowerment programs, supporting IRC staff
• Mission: Empower refugee families in the Richmond area to achieve self-sufficiency and community integration.
• Tech Stack: Microsoft Office, internet research, basic digital tools

What You’ll Actually Do
• Client Employment Support: Provide comprehensive assistance to clients in developing job readiness skills, including resume creation, application processes, and interview preparation, with the ultimate goal of securing employment.
• Digital Inclusion Facilitation: Support efforts to build clients’ digital literacy, encompassing device setup, securing internet access, and guiding them in the safe and effective use of various online platforms.
• Financial Capability Development: Facilitate interactive financial literacy workshops and offer direct assistance with critical processes such as loan applications and establishing access to banking services.
• Community & Employer Outreach: Conduct proactive outreach activities to local employers and community partners to expand available opportunities and essential community resources for clients.
• Program Administration & Resource Development: Develop practical educational materials and tools, including translatable guides, while also maintaining accurate records of client progress and interactions, and offering general administrative support.

The Must-Haves
• Background: This is an early career internship role for individuals with a strong interest in humanitarian work, specifically promoting economic self-sufficiency and integration for international populations. A commitment to equity and respect for cross-cultural differences is essential.
• Experience: Minimum commitment of 15-20 hours per week for at least three months. Familiarity with resume writing, financial coaching, or digital navigation is preferred.
• Skills: Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal abilities. Demonstrated capacity to work both independently and collaboratively, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office, internet research, and basic digital tools.
• Bonus: Multilingual skills, particularly in Spanish, Arabic, Dari, or Pashto, are highly valued. Possession of a valid driver’s license and access to an insured vehicle is also preferred.