International Rescue Committee

Volunteer

Volunteers

Volunteers and interns are an integral part of all IRC San Diego programs. Each year, over four hundred volunteers assist us in providing a personal and welcoming environment for newly arrived refugees. As a volunteer with the IRC, you can have an international experience without leaving San Diego. Students, retirees, and those looking for a meaningful experience are all welcome to apply. Most positions require at least a weekly commitment, willingness to spend time with non-native English speakers, flexibility and patience. All positions offer a rewarding experience and truly impact the lives of refugees. Not all positions are available at all times.

Volunteer Opportunities

Below are some common volunteer opportunities:

  • Tutoring refugee teens in the IRC After School Program
  • Mentoring or tutoring a refugee family 
  • Teaching English in the Mother Preschool Program (as a teacher’s assistant)
  • Helping an adult to find a job or ride the bus
  • Clerical assistance in the office

Please contact us if you have a talent you would like to offer.

Interns

We do offer internships throughout the year. If you are volunteering for school credit, if possible, please contact in advance so we can be sure to meet the requirements of your internship. Unfortunately, at this time, we cannot offer paid internships. 

Process

If you are a student and would like to become an intern or volunteer or intern, please contact Eleyce.Northcraft@theIRC.org to learn of available volunteer opportunties and to request a volunteer application.    

If you are not a student and would like to volunteer, please contact Michael.Kolbas@theIRC.org to request an application and learn about available positions.

Group Activities

Some civic, community, religious or school groups do charity activities to raise awareness, build community, and contribute to a good cause. If your group would like to help the International Rescue Committee San Diego, please contact Sharon.Darrough@theIRC.org or (619) 641-7510, ext. 249.  Sample group projects include:

  • Adopting a newly arrived refugee family and providing all or a significant amount of items needed for their apartment (we can give you a list)
  • Adopting the IRC Mother Preschool Program and providing much needed supplies for the program
  • Purchasing back packs and filling them with school supplies for refugee children
  • Hosting an event – for example, showing a refugee related film
  • Inviting an IRC speaker to your meeting or event