Public Transportation Intern

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 oppression or violent conflict. Domestically, our 22 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: One of the first and most significant our new-arrived clients face to access employment opportunities and community resources is a lack of transportation. The Public Transportation Intern will work within our casework team to help clients learn to confidently navigate public transportation while they build long-term economic self-sufficiency, empowering them to access their community.

Learning Objectives: 

• Teach others how to navigate Richmond’s bus system (GRTC) and provide the best possible service to vulnerable populations.
• Develop critical thinking skills, clients service skills, and intercultural education and social work skills.
• Learn about the IRC locally and globally, the available services to refugees and eligible clients in Richmond, Virginia.

Responsibilities:

• Assist IRC staff with scheduling and implementing bus orientation classes, including:
  • Contacting clients to understand their needs and availability.
  • Scheduling and coordinating with interpreters as needed.
  • Meeting clients at their homes across the Richmond, Henrico, and Chesterfield region.
  • Providing information on IRC English classes for clients to enroll.
  • Presenting information on GRTC and best practices for public transportation, utilizing Google Maps and/or other appropriate tools.
  • Creating supplemental materials for clients to reference to assist them with riding the bus.
  • Coordinating and managing volunteers as needed.
  • Collecting data and writing case notes of each client interaction to support educational initiatives and encourage client success.
• Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy, and practice sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of clients by respecting their beliefs and values.
• Other support as needed.