Volunteers
Volunteers and interns are an integral part of all IRC San Diego programs. Each year, over one 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
NEW! Summer Internships for the Students Plus After School Program
Are you available to tutor refugee teens at least two afternoons a week from June 30th to August 8th?
click here to download an application Deadline to apply is May 16, 2008
Below are some common volunteer opportunities:
- Tutoring refugee teens in the IRC After School Program
- Mentoring a refugee family
- Teaching English in the Mother Preschool Program (as a teacher’s assistant)
- Clerical assistance in the office
- Other opportunities are available such as grant writing, research, and assistance with fundraising events. 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
To become a volunteer or intern, please contact Suzanne.Slattery@theIRC.org to arrange to attend an interview/orientation where you can learn about the specific opportunities, see if your schedule and interests fit our programs, and complete an application. You will also have an interview. The appointment should take no more than one hour. Orientations are offered several times per week.
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
