BACKGROUND: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in over 40 countries and 24 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home. The IRC in Atlanta office was established in 1979 and has resettled over 30,000 refugees from 67 countries into the Greater Atlanta area. As the largest refugee resettlement agency in Georgia, the IRC in Atlanta resettles an average of 1,000 refugees into Georgia annually and provides additional services and assistance to another 2,500 refugees and asylees.
SCOPE OF INTERN WORK: The Economic Empowerment intern reports directly to (1) the IRC’s Small Business Counselor and (2) the IRC’s Financial Coach and supports the efforts of the Economic Empowerment (EE) Department. The Microenterprise Development Program, which is positioned within the Economic Empowerment (EE) Department, provides refugees currently in business or seeking to start businesses with opportunities for business training, one-on-one business technical assistance, and assistance with access to credit and capital. The Financial Capability Program, also positioned within the EE Department, provides clients with the knowledge and tools needed to gain an economic foothold in the U.S. through financial literacy workshops, one-on-one financial counseling and goal setting, budget planning, tax preparation and connecting clients with community financial resources. Both programs work in close collaboration with each other. Please note that all internship positions are unpaid.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Participate in Financial Capability and Economic Empowerment group meetings
Provide input on creating more efficient client strategies
Input client data and handle various administrative and logistical tasks related to client appointments
Participate in client family budget/budget improvement appointments
Assist Financial Coaches in resolving clients’ financial challenges
Assist Financial Coaches in setting up of clients’ IOM loan repayment
Assist in facilitating awareness of other Financial Capability group programs offered by IRC that may benefit clients
Make appropriate referrals to other areas of IRC on behalf of client, as appropriate
Participate in financial literacy workshops for new arrival clients, covering topics including budgeting, banking, and credit
Assist the Microenterprise Development (MED) team with program recruitment efforts by developing and distributing flyers and brochures, and engaging with community organizations and local businesses
Provide program orientations and trainings to individuals and groups
Work with refugee and immigrant entrepreneurs to strengthen their business plans, develop marketing materials, and provide other supportive services as needed
Conduct business-related research in key industries
Maintain case files for program clients
Enter data into the program’s information data systems and internal tracking systems
Provide general administrative support and maintain accurate records of Microenterprise Development (MED) program activities
Submit intern hours on volunteer dashboard
Other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications: QUALIFICATIONS:Strong interest in working with international clients
Proven ability to work with consideration and respect for cross-cultural differences
Excellent communication and organization skills
Ability to work independently
Computer skills, including Microsoft Office programs and internet research
Enthusiasm for helping people to learn and demonstrated professionalism
Must have a valid driver’s license and access to an insured vehicle
Graphic design and/or web development experience preferred
REQUIREMENTS:
Must submit intern hours on volunteer portal.
Must pass a background check.
Commitment of 15 hours per week for a minimum of 3 consecutive months.
Must be at least 18 years old.
Must be authorized to work in the United States. Please note that we are unable to provide sponsorship for a US work authorization.
This is an in-person role. This position reports to (1) the IRC’s Small Business Counselor and (2) the IRC’s Financial Coach.
The internship will be filled on a rolling basis. We will continue to accept applications until August 8th, 2025, or until the position is filled, whichever occurs first. Internship will begin the week of September 8th, 2025.
Standard of Professional Conduct:The IRC and the IRC workers must adhere to the values and principles outlined in the IRC Way – our Code of Conduct. These are Integrity, Service, Accountability, and Equality.