ICM Social Work Intern (Unpaid)

BACKGROUND: International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in more than 40 countries and over 20 U.S. cities, the IRC provides resettlement, education and empowerment support to refugees and displaced people. Oftentimes upon arrival and throughout their first few years, our clients face barriers limiting access to services and medical care. The Intensive Case Management program works one-on-one with clients to assess their needs and coordinate services accordingly.

SCOPE OF WORK for Non-BSW/MSW Interns: The ICM Intern collaborates closely with the ICM supervisor to evaluate resource gaps for clients and establishes community connections to enhance support for refugee and displaced individuals with severe physical or mental health conditions, the elderly, LGBTQ+ clients, single-headed households, and victims of sexual assault and gender-based violence participating in the Intensive Case Management (ICM) or Supplemental Case Management (SCM) programs. Additionally, ICM Interns assist ICM caseworkers in various in-person, client- centered tasks.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintain constant contact with ICM Supervisor and ICM Caseworkers for assignments.

• Assess resource gaps and develop community connections as needed.

• Revise existing resource sheets to guarantee accuracy and currency, including verifying information by phone calls or in-person to confirm details.

• Organize community resource information by risk domain for effective accessibility.

• Assist with fulfilling in-person duties, including but not limited to donation drop-offs, accompanying clients to medical or social service appointments, transportation orientations, networking, and conducting home visits.

• Educate clients on the U.S. healthcare and benefits systems.

• Keep thorough and accurate case file documentation in IRC's database as needed.

• Communicate client concerns and potential challenges to ICM caseworkers.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Acquire a thorough understanding of the U.S refugee resettlement process and services available to clients resettled by the IRC.

1. Develop essential skills in identifying clients' needs, efficiently coordinating medical care, social services support, and establishing connections to vital supportive services within the community.

1. Hone expertise in conducting wellness assessments at designated intervals post ICM/ SCM enrollment and maintain comprehensive case file documentation of all direct services rendered.