ESOL Intern - Fall 2026 (UNPAID)

Background

Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee is a leading, non-sectarian, non-profit organization providing emergency relief, protection, rehabilitation assistance, resettlement services, and advocacy for refugees and victims of crisis or violent conflict. Domestically, our 29 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 Role

Developing skills and confidence in speaking, reading, and writing in English is crucial for new arrivals' success in Richmond. These skills expand resource accessibility, employment opportunities, and much more. The English Language Training Intern will assist the Adult Education Specialist in the planning and provision of English language training classes to the refugees and immigrants that IRC Richmond serves.

Learning Objectives

The English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Intern will:

• Learn how to manage classes and supporting services within the established requirements, to provide the best possible service to vulnerable populations.
• Develop critical thinking skills, client service skills, and cross-global education and social work skills.
• Learn about the IRC locally and globally, the available services to refugees and ORR-eligible clients in Richmond, Virginia.

Responsibilities

• Assist IRC staff with the enrollment, coordination, and implementation of classes, including:
  • Contacting students to confirm their availability to attend classes.
  • Navigating client barriers to education.
  • Differentiating and scaffolding instruction to students individually or in small groups.
  • Communicating with local stakeholders and adult education services to connect students to appropriate classes.
• Support teachers in the preparation of the student materials for the classes.
• Coordinate with volunteers to ensure proper coverage is in place for adult education classes, including childcare volunteers; cover the childcare volunteer role as needed.
• Collect data to support educational initiatives and encourage student success.
• Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy, practice respect and consideration of clients' varied backgrounds and experiences, respect client beliefs and values.
• Other support as needed.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate or graduate level studies in education, social work, international relations, social sciences, or related field preferred.
• Respect and awareness of global backgrounds and experiences, and a desire to help refugees adjust to life in the U.S.
• Patience, understanding, and flexibility
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
• Effective communication skills, especially in a cross-global environment
• Engaged in learning about the IRC (mission, philosophy, global work, and local efforts) and willing to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies
• Proficiency in more than one language preferred but not required

Benefits

• 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 available to staff and their families to support counseling and care in times of crisis and mental health struggles