Volunteer with IRC

 
We are excited that you are interested in volunteering with us!  Many refugees find their first few months in the U.S. to be a very challenging experience, having to learn English, find a job and adjust to a new life simultaneously.  If you are interested in volunteering, please e-mail us at volunteerbaltimore@theIRC.org.
 
Prospective volunteers are asked to attend one of our upcoming monthly orientations:

• Monday, October 19th from 5:30pm-7:00pm

All orientations are held at the Baltimore Resettlement Center, 3516 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21224.  Please RSVP for the orientation by e-mailing volunteerbaltimore@theIRC.org.
 
Volunteer Opportunities
 
Resettlement Shop Volunteer: Through donations of goods such as household items, clothing, school supplies and furniture, refugees are able to obtain some of the necessities that they need, for free.  The Resettlement Shop is staffed by volunteers and operates Tuesdays through Thursdays, from 11:00am-2:00pm.  Time Commitment: At least 1 shift (11am-2pm) per week for 3 months.
 
Acculturation Family Mentor: The Family Mentor provides support to refugee families by helping them learn basic life skills and adapt to life in the U.S.  Family Mentors assist with practical needs and provide friendly encouragement as refugees become familiar with American and local customs.  Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week, for at least 6 months.  Family Mentors set up individual meetings with the family, based on their and the family's schedules.  This meeting can take place in the mornings, afternoons, evenings or on weekends.
 
Resettlement Services Support Volunteer: The Resettlement Services Support volunteer works closely with IRC staff on projects, and other duties, as assigned.  Projects and assignments may include updating information on databases, assisting case managers with refugees, helping refugees find employment and setting up appointments for refugees at medical clinics.  Time Commitment: At least 4 hours per week, during business hours, Mondays through Fridays, between 9am and 5pm for 3 months.
 
HOPE Program Tutor: Assist refugee youth in learning English and completing homework assignments!  Volunteers are needed to tutor for the HOPE After School Program, working closely with refugee youth to improve their English conversation, reading and writing skills.  Time Commitment: The HOPE Program provides tutoring to children after-school.  Volunteers are asked to commit to 1 afternoon per week. 
For the safety of our refugee/asylee clients, volunteers are asked to provide references and must pass a background check prior to starting as a volunteer.
 
Advocates for Change
 
Advocates for Change (AFC) is a volunteer leadership group. Our mission is to impact change through outreach and advocacy, supporting the Family Mentoring Program and working with refugees to become advocates.  AFC meets biweekly to discuss and plan ways to bring together volunteer efforts, build community and relationships with volunteers and refugees, organize and plan events and provide opportunities for refugee families and mentors.
 
We are currently seeking committee members for Advocates for Change. This is a special opportunity to be a part of a global organization that works hands on with refugees and families and that changes lives hourly.  Committee members should have overseas experience (or experience working with international populations) and are expected to commit to being part of AFC for at least 1 year. If you are interested, please contact Jessica Li, Advocacy & Outreach Coordinator at jessica.li@theIRC.org.