Opportunities From: United Way of Central Iowa

The IRC in Iowa is currently in need of donations of "lunch kits" for our newly employed refugees! 

These kits would include:

Insulated lunch boxWater bottle or thermosSmall set of tupperware containersSmall ice pack

Your company, organization/club, family, or you as an individual can make a difference by purchasing these items for those new to our state and workforce. These items will continue to provide for them longer than the holiday season!

For more information please contact IRC in Iowa Community Engagement Coordinator, Kate Brockmeyer at 641-200-1985 or email Iowa@rescue.org

The IRC in Des Moines seeks multiple volunteers to teach required Cultural Orientation classes, where newly arrived refugees learn important information about life in the US and Iowa

TITLE: Cultural Orientation Volunteer

LOCATION: Des Moines, IA                   

START DATE: Ongoing

DURATION: Minimum 3-month time commitment, background check required

SCHEDULE: Cultural Orientations are held 4-6 days a month on Thursdays and Fridays, typically between 10-4. Shifts are available 10-1 and 1-4. Scheduling is flexible depending on availability.

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 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.  

The Des Moines, IA office was opened in July of 2022, serving more than 200 refugees in its first year. Our operations expanded to Iowa City with our office opening in February 2024. The Health and Wellness Coordinator supports clients in navigating complex medical and benefits systems, and designs and connects clients to programs and resources that improve their quality of life.

Scope of Service 

The IRC in Des Moines seeks volunteers to teach Cultural Orientation classes, where newly arrived refugees learn about the basics of life in the U.S. Wide-ranging topics such as emergency services, transportation, and school are covered so that refugees can begin to thrive in their new environment. Volunteers will also help newly arrived refugees explore their neighborhoods and provide follow-up support for individuals needing additional one-on-one assistance.

RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:Complete required training on cultural orientation content, either in person or virtuallyFacilitate small to large-group instruction using the provided Cultural Orientation curriculumWork with interpreters to effectively deliver instructional content to multilingual studentsAssist in orienting newly arrived refugees to their neighborhoods through classes and field trips (libraries, parks, clothing stores, grocery stores, and other community services)Provide follow-up for individuals needing more assistance after the Cultural Orientation classHelp develop new resources and curriculum to introduce newly arrived refugees to U.S. customs, laws, and cultureDesired but not Required:Can speak Swahili, Dari / Farsi, Pashto, French, or Spanish.

This is an unpaid volunteer position.

How to apply 

Go to https://irc-global.my.salesforce-sites.com/volunteer and complete the application. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to iowa@rescue.org. Once your application is received, a staff member will contact you for a brief interview. You will then receive a link to complete a background check. Finally, you will be contacted to attend a required volunteer training. 

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants based on merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability. 

IRC in Des Moines is seeking multiple Child Care Volunteers to assist with supervising and entertaining children in the office while their parents participate in programmatic learning in cultural orientation.

TITLE: Childcare Supervision Volunteer

LOCATION: Des Moines, IA                   

START DATE: Ongoing

DURATION: Minimum 3-month time commitment, background check required

SCHEDULE: Cultural Orientations are held 4-6 days a month on Thursdays and Fridays, typically between 10-4. Shifts are available 10-1 and 1-4. Scheduling is flexible depending on availability.

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 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.  

The Des Moines, IA office was opened in July of 2022, serving more than 200 refugees in its first year. Our operations expanded to Iowa City with our office opening in February 2024. The Health and Wellness Coordinator supports clients in navigating complex medical and benefits systems, and designs and connects clients to programs and resources that improve their quality of life.

Scope of Service 

The IRC in Des Moines seeks volunteers to assist with child care and supervision during Cultural Orientation programming for parents. Classes range from 1- 6 hours, depending on the topic, and could be held in and out of the IRC Des Moines office. Children range in age from babies to teens. The Cultural Orientation classroom is located directly next to our private childcare room. 

RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:Supervise and keep careful watch over all children while classes are in session and children are not attended by parents.Make sure that basic needs are met for each child. This may include escorting small children to the restroom, providing food and water, or changing disposable diapers.  All products or items needed to facilitate these responsibilities will be provided by IRC staff.Provide means of entertainment for children that need directed play.  Age ranges for children vary. Some smaller children may need more guided play.  Toys, books, and art supplies are provided by the IRC office.Report accidents or injuries to IRC staff immediately, if applicable.Desired but not Required:Can speak Swahili, Dari / Farsi, Pashto, French, or Spanish.CPR and First Aid Certified

This is an unpaid volunteer position.

How to apply 

Go to https://irc-global.my.salesforce-sites.com/volunteer and complete the application. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to iowa@rescue.org. Once your application is received, a staff member will contact you for a brief interview. You will then receive a link to complete a background check. Finally, you will be contacted to attend a required volunteer training. 

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants based on merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability. 

TITLE: Health & Wellness Program Volunteer

LOCATION: Des Moines, IA                   

START DATE: Ongoing

DURATION: Minimum 3 months time commitment

SCHEDULE: Flexible, but at least 2 - 4 hours per week Monday – Friday, between 9-5 PM.

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 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.  

The Des Moines, IA office was opened in July of 2022, serving more than 200 refugees in its first year. Our operations expanded to Iowa City with our office opening in February 2024. The Health and Wellness Coordinator supports clients in navigating complex medical and benefits systems, and designs and connects clients to programs and resources that improve their quality of life.

SCOPE OF VOLUNTEER WORK:

Under the supervision of the Health & Wellness Coordinator, volunteers will assist caseworkers in driving clients to medical appointments and identifying resources and relationships with agencies in the community that can expand offerings, activities, and health resources for IRC clients.

RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:

Assist Case Manager in driving clients to IRC office, doctor’s office, grocery store, and other important locations.Identify free extracurricular, engaging activities and programs in the community that support refugee children and families. Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy.Desired but not Required:Can speak Swahili, Dari / Farsi, Pashto, French, or Spanish.Driver's license and insured car

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Display sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of refugee clients, showing respect for their beliefs and values.Gain exposure to interacting with diverse communities, cultures, and backgrounds.Deepen understanding of the refugee and immigrant communities' unique barriers, challenges, and assets.Develop skills related to building a community network of connections and resources.Identify ways to consolidate information and disseminate it to broad audiences.

This is an unpaid volunteer position with an opportunity for reimbursement for using a personal vehicle.

How to apply 

Go to https://irc-global.my.salesforce-sites.com/volunteer and complete the application. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to iowa@rescue.org. Once your application is received, a staff member will contact you for a brief interview. You will then receive a link to complete a background check. Finally, you will be contacted to attend a required volunteer training. 

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants based on merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability. 

The IRC in Des Moines seeks volunteers to work with resettlement staff to assist refugees during their first 90 days in the United States. Volunteers will assist the case manager in welcoming refugees resettling in Des Moines by being part of the team that sets up their new apartment or house!

TITLE: Welcome Committee: Housing Set Up Volunteer

LOCATION: Des Moines, IA                   

START DATE: Ongoing

DURATION: Minimum 1-month time commitment

SCHEDULE: Flexible (mostly on call) most setups occur Monday – Friday, between 9-5 PM, but can also happen on weekends. A typical housing setup takes 2-5 hours.

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 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.  

The Des Moines, IA office was opened in July of 2022, serving more than 200 refugees in its first year. Our operations expanded to Iowa City with our office opening in February 2024. The Health and Wellness Coordinator supports clients in navigating complex medical and benefits systems, and designs and connects clients to programs and resources that improve their quality of life.

Scope of Service 

The volunteer will assist the case manager to prepare and furnish apartments for new refugee families. Volunteers will not be required to purchase anything.

RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:Traveling with IRC staff to pick up and drop off furniture, supplies, and food to the new homeUnpacking, assembling, and arranging household items to create a welcoming homeWashing and putting dishes awayGeneral cleaning such as dusting and vacuuming Setting up other household items such as beds so they are ready to go upon client arrival

This is an unpaid volunteer position with an opportunity for reimbursement for using a personal vehicle.

How to apply 

Go to https://irc-global.my.salesforce-sites.com/volunteer and complete the application. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to iowa@rescue.org. Once your application is received, a staff member will contact you for a brief interview. You will then receive a link to complete a background check. Finally, you will be contacted to attend a required volunteer training. 

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants based on merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability. 

The IRC in Des Moines seeks volunteers to work with resettlement staff to assist refugees during their first 90 days in the United States. Volunteers will assist the case manager in completing required services to help clients integrate into their new communities such as bus training and ESL registration during the client's first 90 days.

TITLE: Refugee Resettlement Volunteer

LOCATION: Des Moines, IA                   

START DATE: Ongoing

DURATION: Minimum 1-month time commitment

SCHEDULE: Flexible, 2-4 hours a week Monday – Friday between 9-5 PM.

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 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.  

The Des Moines, IA office was opened in July of 2022, serving more than 200 refugees in its first year. Our operations expanded to Iowa City with our office opening in February 2024. The Health and Wellness Coordinator supports clients in navigating complex medical and benefits systems, and designs and connects clients to programs and resources that improve their quality of life.

Scope of Service 

The IRC in Des Moines seeks volunteers to work with resettlement staff to assist refugees during their first 90 days in the United States. Volunteers will assist the case manager in completing required services to help clients integrate into their new communities.

RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:

Assist Case Manager in training clients to ride DART bus from their residence to the IRC office, doctor’s office, grocery store, and other important locations. No prior experience riding the bus is necessary, training will be providedAccompany clients to register for English language classes. Assist client in learning to take the bus to class if neededTake clients to DOT to apply for a State IDRegister refugee youth for school Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Display sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of refugee clients, showing respect for their beliefs and values.Gain exposure to interacting with diverse communities, cultures, and backgrounds.Deepen understanding of the refugee and immigrant communities' unique barriers, challenges, and assets.Develop skills related to building a community network of connections and resources.Identify ways to consolidate information and disseminate it to broad audiences.Desired but not Required:Can speak Swahili, Dari / Farsi, Pashto, French, or Spanish.Driver's license and insured car

This is an unpaid volunteer position with an opportunity for reimbursement for using a personal vehicle.

How to apply 

Go to https://irc-global.my.salesforce-sites.com/volunteer and complete the application. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to iowa@rescue.org. Once your application is received, a staff member will contact you for a brief interview. You will then receive a link to complete a background check. Finally, you will be contacted to attend a required volunteer training. 

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants based on merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability. 

The IRC in Des Moines seeks multiple volunteers to work with our Matching Grant (employment) Case Manager to teach Employment Readiness classes and assist with completing employment-related tasks such as job applications and rides to interviews.

TITLE: Employment Program Volunteer

LOCATION: Des Moines, IA                   

START DATE: Ongoing

DURATION: Minimum 3-month time commitment

SCHEDULE: Flexible, 2-6 hours a week Monday – Friday between 9-5 PM.

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 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.  

The Des Moines, IA office was opened in July of 2022, serving more than 200 refugees in its first year. Our operations expanded to Iowa City with our office opening in February 2024. The Health and Wellness Coordinator supports clients in navigating complex medical and benefits systems, and designs and connects clients to programs and resources that improve their quality of life.

Scope of Service 

The IRC in Des Moines seeks volunteers to work with our Matching Grant (employment) Case Manager to complete required aspects of the program, such as Employment Readiness classes, job applications, transportation to interviews, completing paperwork, and other activities that will help clients succeed in their new jobs. 

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:Complete required training on employment readiness content, either in person or virtuallyFacilitate small to large group instruction using the provided curriculum, which includes teaching clients how to find jobs, what the interview process is like, how to succeed once they begin a job and other information to help them achieve success in the US workforceProvide follow-up for individuals needing more assistance after classHelp develop new resources, such as PowerPoint slides and handouts, to introduce newly arrived refugees to work life in the United StatesAssist Case Manager in completing job applications with clientsTransport clients to job interviews and orientationAssist case manager with completing and filing paperwork required by the programDesired but not Required:Can speak Swahili, Dari / Farsi, Pashto, French, or Spanish.Driver's license and insured car

This is an unpaid volunteer position with an opportunity for reimbursement for using a personal vehicle.

How to apply 

Go to https://irc-global.my.salesforce-sites.com/volunteer and complete the application. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to iowa@rescue.org. Once your application is received, a staff member will contact you for a brief interview. You will then receive a link to complete a background check. Finally, you will be contacted to attend a required volunteer training. 

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants based on merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability. 

Help the IRC in Iowa (Des Moines and Iowa City) mobilize the community in support of our clients! Work in support of the Development and Community Engagement Team, by creating and disseminating content that engages the local communities we work in. We need help with making flyers and posting them around town, creating social media content, helping with events and more

TITLE: Community Engagement Volunteer

LOCATION: Des Moines, IA (mostly virtual)                

START DATE: Ongoing

DURATION: Minimum 2-month time commitment

SCHEDULE: Flexible, (mostly virtual support) 1-3 hours a week Monday – Friday between 9-5 PM. Occasional weekend event support.

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 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.  

The Des Moines, IA office was opened in July of 2022, serving more than 200 refugees in its first year. Our operations expanded to Iowa City with our office opening in February 2024. The Health and Wellness Coordinator supports clients in navigating complex medical and benefits systems, and designs and connects clients to programs and resources that improve their quality of life.

Scope of Service 

Work in support of the Development and Community Engagement Team, by creating and disseminating content that engages the local communities we work in. 

RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:Creating content for donation drives, volunteerism, and donations.Soliciting local coffee shops, businesses, and colleges with flyers about donation drives.Creating content for social media.Could include story-writing and other journalism activities.Writing thank you cards to donors and partners and obtaining staff signatures.Helping to plan, manage, and orchestrate fundraisers, career fairs, and other event.Desired but not Required:Can speak Swahili, Dari / Farsi, Pashto, French, or Spanish.Driver's license and insured car

This is an unpaid volunteer position.

How to apply 

Go to https://irc-global.my.salesforce-sites.com/volunteer and complete the application. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to iowa@rescue.org. Once your application is received, a staff member will contact you for a brief interview. You will then receive a link to complete a background check. Finally, you will be contacted to attend a required volunteer training. 

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants based on merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.