Virtual Family Mentor - International Rescue Committee : Job Details

Impact: Do you want to build meaningful cross-cultural relationships and empower refugees and humanitarian immigrants as they rebuild their lives in the U.S.? As a Virtual Family Mentor, you will support individuals and families navigating challenges after their initial resettlement period. Your virtual guidance and encouragement can help clients build confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging.

Overview: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) offers remote support through the Virtual Supplemental Case Management (VSCM) Program to refugees and humanitarian immigrants across the U.S. The Virtual Supplemental Case Management (VSCM) Program was created to provide services to clients in need of case management who are outside the serviceable area of an IRC office or other resettlement agency and help local offices who need additional virtual support. These clients may include single-parent households, survivors of gender-based violence, older adults, individuals with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ refugees. As a Virtual Family Mentor, you will be matched with a client to provide virtual mentorship, practical support, and resource navigation assistance.

Scope of Role: The Virtual Family Mentor must have a strong internal drive to help people and display a positive and upbeat demeanor. S/he should display creativity and initiative to address the needs of the Mentee(s). Virtual Family Mentors provide culturally responsive and trauma-informed support by engaging with clients through virtual platforms (Zoom, WhatsApp, phone, etc.). Volunteers work one-on-one with individuals or families, depending on the client's needs and availability. Mentors help clients work toward personal goals, such as improving English, understanding healthcare, accessing education, and navigating U.S. systems. Volunteers submit case notes within 48 hours of each session.

Responsibilities: Included, but are not limited to-

• Establishing a supportive relationship with clients through regular virtual meeting
• Helping clients develop and work toward personalized integration goals
• Supporting clients in navigating healthcare, education, employment, and digital tools
• Encouraging development of English proficiency and digital literacy
• Assisting with referrals to community resources and programs
• Submitting case notes after each session
• Participating in IRC training and supervision sessions
• Upholding confidentiality and IRC safeguarding policies
• Tracking volunteer hours served, and consistently and accurately logging volunteer hours in Salesforce/Golden on a monthly basis
• Upholding and adhering to all IRC, program, child safeguarding, and mandatory reporting policies

Time Commitment:

• Must be able to commit to one 2 to 3 hours/week for 12 weeks
• Be available for flexible scheduling to accommodate client needs
• Complete IRC orientation and required training prior to start
• Participate in ongoing development opportunities as assigned.

Onboarding requirements:

• All positions are contingent on clearing an IRC background check through HireRight. [A donation is requested to help offset the costs]. Background checks can vary between $30 to $120 depending on the state.
• Review and sign IRC volunteer policy documents and commitment paperwork
• Attend an online orientation to the IRC's work and our VSCM program

Qualifications:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be able to meet student in student's home
• Adhere to IRC policies and professional standards
• Clear IRC background and reference checks
• Demonstrate respect for clients, staff, and other volunteers with global, varied backgrounds and experiences
• Fluent in English; proficiency in other languages a plus
• Reliable internet access and personal computer or smart device
• Comfortable using Zoom, WhatsApp, and other virtual communication tools
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Sensitive to different backgrounds and experiences
• Able to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality
• Experience with refugee or immigrant populations is helpful but not required

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

The IRC is committed to creating a respectful and safe work environment where all persons are treated fairly, with dignity and respect. The IRC expressly prohibits and will not tolerate discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or bullying of the IRC persons in any work setting.

Private Group Details:

• Group Size Range: 1 - 50+
• Event can be held virtually
• Donation Requested
• All positions are contingent on clearing an IRC background check. A donation is requested to help offset the costs. Background checks can vary between $30 to $120 depending on the state.