International Rescue Committee (IRC) Internship 2026: Refugee Resettlement Role in the USA (Apply Before May 22)
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If you’re passionate about making a real difference in people’s lives while gaining practical, hands-on experience, the Refugee Resettlement Intern (Summer 2026) opportunity with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) could be exactly what you’re looking for. This internship offers a unique chance to work directly with refugees and humanitarian immigrants as they begin new lives in the United States.
Based in Silver Spring, Maryland, this hybrid, part-time internship is designed for individuals eager to build a meaningful career in humanitarian work, social services, or international development. With a structured learning environment and real-world responsibilities, it’s more than just an internship—it’s a gateway into impactful global work.
About the International Rescue Committee
Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the International Rescue Committee has grown into one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations. Operating in more than 40 countries and across 29 U.S. cities, the IRC provides critical support to people affected by conflict, disaster, and displacement.
The organization’s mission is simple yet powerful: to help individuals survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. Through programs focused on health, education, economic wellbeing, and safety, the IRC empowers communities to regain control of their futures with dignity and hope.
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Internship Overview
The Refugee Resettlement Intern will work closely with a dedicated casework team supporting newly arrived refugees during their initial resettlement period. This is a hands-on role that combines logistics, direct client interaction, and administrative responsibilities.
- Location: Silver Spring, Maryland (Hybrid)
- Schedule: 24–32 hours per week (3–4 days)
- Duration: 4 months (Summer 2026)
- Start Date: June 1, 2026 (mandatory in-person orientation)
- Application Deadline: May 22, 2026
This role requires both office-based work and field activities within the local community.
What You’ll Be Doing
As a Refugee Resettlement Intern, your day-to-day responsibilities will directly impact the lives of newly arrived families. You’ll be involved in every stage of the resettlement journey—from preparing homes to ensuring access to essential services.
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Key Responsibilities
1. Preparing Homes for Arrival
Before clients arrive, you’ll assist with setting up housing. This includes assembling furniture, organizing household supplies, and ensuring the space is welcoming and livable.
2. Airport Pickups and Orientation
You’ll help welcome refugees at the airport, transport them to their new homes, and provide a basic orientation to help them settle in comfortably.
3. Supporting Access to Essential Services
Interns assist clients in applying for public benefits such as Medicaid and social security cards, helping them navigate unfamiliar systems with confidence.
4. Community Integration Support
From guiding clients on how to use public transportation to connecting them with English language classes and medical services, you’ll play a key role in their integration.
5. Ongoing Client Communication
You’ll conduct follow-up calls and messages to check on clients’ progress, ensuring their needs are being met and addressing any challenges they face.
6. Data Management and Reporting
Accurate record-keeping is essential. You’ll document interactions and services provided using tools like Microsoft Excel and internal databases.
7. Resource Development
You’ll research and identify community resources to fill service gaps, strengthening the support network available to clients.
What You’ll Learn
This internship is designed to provide valuable, career-building skills in the humanitarian and nonprofit sectors.
- Housing and logistics coordination for refugee arrivals
- Direct client engagement in a multicultural environment
- Understanding of U.S. public benefits systems
- Professional data tracking and reporting practices
- Community resource mapping and service coordination
By the end of the internship, you’ll have a well-rounded understanding of refugee resettlement processes and the challenges faced by displaced populations.
Who Should Apply?
The IRC is looking for motivated, compassionate individuals who are ready to contribute and learn in a fast-paced environment.
Minimum Requirements
- Availability for 24–32 hours per week over four months
- Valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle
- Ability to lift and carry items (50+ lbs)
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, Outlook)
- Ability to multitask and work independently
Preferred Skills
- Interest in humanitarian work or social services
- Comfort working in a multicultural environment
- Knowledge of or willingness to learn about community resources and benefits
- Language skills in Dari, Haitian Creole, Pashto, or Spanish (a plus)
Important Notes About the Internship
- This internship is unpaid, but interns may receive a $15/day stipend to help cover food and travel expenses.
- Applicants must be able to work in-person in the Silver Spring office and surrounding areas.
- Candidates not currently enrolled in an academic program may still apply but will be considered as volunteers.
- A background check is required for selected candidates.
Why Choose the IRC?
Working with the International Rescue Committee means joining a global network of professionals committed to meaningful change.
1. Purpose-Driven Work
Every task you complete contributes to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals and families.
2. Global Exposure
You’ll collaborate with a diverse team and gain insights into international humanitarian operations.
3. Real-World Experience
This isn’t just observational—you’ll actively participate in impactful work that builds your professional skills.
4. Innovation and Learning
The IRC is known for its data-driven and innovative approaches, offering interns exposure to cutting-edge practices.
5. Supportive Environment
You’ll be part of a community that values collaboration, inclusion, and continuous growth.
Recruitment Process
The IRC recruitment process typically involves multiple stages:
- Initial screening with a recruiter
- Interview with a hiring manager
- Final assessment or panel interview
Successful candidates will also undergo reference checks and a background screening before onboarding.
How to Apply
To apply for the Refugee Resettlement Intern (Summer 2026) role, you’ll need to prepare the following:
- A resume
- A cover letter
- A list of at least three references
Applications must be submitted before May 22, 2026, so early application is encouraged.
Final Thoughts
The Refugee Resettlement Intern position at the International Rescue Committee is more than just a summer opportunity—it’s a chance to contribute to life-changing work while building a strong foundation for your future career.
If you’re driven by compassion, eager to learn, and ready to take on meaningful challenges, this internship offers an unforgettable experience. You won’t just gain skills—you’ll help create lasting impact in the lives of people rebuilding their futures.
