The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian aid, relief and development nongovernmental organization. Founded in 1933 at the request of Albert Einstein, the IRC offers emergency aid and long-term assistance to refugees and those displaced by war, persecution or natural disaster. The President of the International Rescue Committee is former British Foreign Secretary, David Miliband.
During my last semester I had the pleasure to intern at the International Rescue Committee in Miami. Throughout my internship I had a chance to see all the good work the IRC is doing for the South Florida region and participate in two of their programs. I first participated in their outreach and public awareness programs, going to events and making sure the local population is aware of the services we offer and the different ways in which they can get involved. I then had the chance to be mentored by Aileen, an experienced caseworker for the IRC's Match Grant program. The program's primordial focus is to ensure that refugee's become economically self-sufficient within 4 to 6 months of arrival to the United States. Finding employment is therefore the main goal. With that goal in mind we assist refugees and guide them through the necessary steps to find a job, like getting a Social Security Card and a work permit; We also offer refugees job placement assistance, requiring that they accept any job that's offered to them. We make sure that they understand the importance of having a sound financial plan and aid them in the creation of one. Furthermore we assist them in the numerous processes in order to achieve a successful adjustment to the country, learning English (if/when necessary), direct them to the pertinent Health Departments for vaccinations and immunizations, immigration services etc
Being part of a team of dedicated professionals at one of the oldest non-governmental organizations in existence has been a wonderful opportunity. An opportunity that has allowed me to help people while learning the intricacies involved in managing an international organization in an efficient manner as well as enable me to reach out to the diverse community of our particular Sunshine State. Perhaps one of the biggest impacts of my internship has been to meet refugees and asylum seekers of different backgrounds that escaping the dangers and misfortunes of their homeland, have come to the U.S looking to re-start their life in a secure environment.