Casework Intern (Fall 2026) - UNPAID

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises, providing emergency relief, protection, rehabilitation assistance, resettlement services, and advocacy for refugees and victims of violent conflict. Founded in 1933 by Albert Einstein, the IRC works in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, ensuring new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and helping refugees regain self-sufficiency.

About the Role

The Casework Intern supports IRC Richmond’s Casework department, working directly with caseworkers to assist newly arrived refugees and other eligible populations during their initial resettlement period. Responsibilities include supporting client appointments, public benefits enrollment, healthcare access, and community resource coordination.

Responsibilities

• Support caseworkers with client appointments and service coordination
• Aid clients with accessing community resources and navigating public systems
• Help clients complete applications and required paperwork for services and benefits
• Support Cultural Orientation sessions and client education activities
• Assist with transportation coordination and accompaniment to appointments
• Prepare required documentation for case files and enter case notes
• Auxiliary with scheduling, follow-up communication, and general administrative tasks
• Organize and maintain client files and records
• Coordinate donations, supplies, and client needs as assigned
• Advocate for clients during service delivery and represent IRC professionally
• Track hours and submit a monthly timesheet through IRC’s online Volunteer Dashboard

Requirements

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Detail-oriented, organized, and reliable
• Ability to navigate a complex and fast-paced environment
• Access to a car and a clean driving record

Qualifications

Must be currently enrolled in a college or university, majoring in social work, psychology, public health, or a related field. Previous experience working with refugees or immigrants is preferred but not required.

Skills

Strong interpersonal skills, ability to work independently and as part of a team, and proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Benefits

Unpaid internship opportunity. IRC offers a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package in the United States, including:

• 10 sick days
• 10 US holidays
• 20-25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure
• Medical insurance starting at $163 per month
• Dental starting at $6.50 per month
• Vision starting at $5 per month
• FSA for healthcare and commuter costs
• 403b retirement savings plan with immediately vested matching
• Disability & life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program

Pay

This position is unpaid.

Schedule

The intern will work full-time, Monday through Friday, with flexible hours to accommodate client needs.