Refugee Services Intern/ Volunteer

About the role#

The Refugee Services Intern/Volunteer role provides hands-on experience working with refugee and immigrant communities. You will support staff and clients through a variety of direct and indirect service activities, helping individuals navigate essential services, education, healthcare, and community life. This position is suitable for students in fields such as Public Health, International Relations, Sociology, or Psychology.

What you'll do#

Direct Service

• Greet clients and assist with front desk sign-in and visitor coordination.
• Support the youth program through community service projects, recreational activities, field trips, and academic support.
• Assist with evening or weekend programs, including health education workshops and vaccine clinics.
• Accompany staff and clients to appointments such as the DMV, Social Security, healthcare visits, and immigration appointments.
• Tutor clients in English language learning or citizenship preparation.
• Help clients read and understand mail or complete paperwork.
• Assist case managers working with high-need clients, including elderly individuals or those with medical or mental health needs.
• Accompany children walking to or from school when needed.

Indirect Service

• File and organize office paperwork.
• Make copies of documents and proofread applications.
• Organize and maintain office and program spaces.
• Sort donated clothing and maintain the clothing closet.
• Coordinate and organize community donations, including bikes, clothing, and furniture.

What you'll need#

• Interest in working with refugee and immigrant communities.
• Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills.
• Reliable, organized, and compassionate approach to work.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must complete Volunteer & Safe Environment Training.
• Fluency in additional languages and experience in tutoring, youth programs, or community outreach are preferred but not required.

Location & details#

• Location: Syracuse, New York.
• Modality: On-site.
• Compensation: This is a non-paid position.
• Term: Rolling; flexible scheduling with availability to contribute several hours per week or month.