Housing & Logistics Intern

Job Description

JOB TITLE: Housing and Logistics Intern

CONNECTION TO MISSION: Securing safe, affordable housing for families arriving to the U.S. is one aspect of IRC's comprehensive case management.

POSITION DESCRIPTION: Assist the Housing and Logistics Specialist to efficiently secure and furnish housing for newly arriving refugee families by assisting with the following tasks: Conduct targeted outreach to potential landlords and property managers with goal of increasing access to appropriate housing for newly arrived families; maintain ongoing relationships with existing landlords and property managers to ensure mutually beneficial partnerships between housing providers and IRC. Secure safe, sanitary, and affordable housing for all newly arriving refugee families. Coordinate logistics of apartment set-ups, including ordering furniture and supplies and arranging delivery.Arrange for utility hook-up. Provide housing orientation to all new arrivals. Ensure new families have appropriate digital access upon arrival, including low-cost or subsidized internet and devices/technology to access services remotely as needed. Implement a high-quality procurement protocol including researching potential new vendors, ensuring appropriate financial and purchasing procedures are followed, and maintaining required documentation. Ensure furniture and household goods donated in-kind are distributed to new arrivals in a timely and equitable manner. As a member of the casework team, assist caseworkers when needed with airport pick-ups, 24-hour home visits and home and personal safety orientations. Coordinate client home repair requests with landlords and property managers; track resolution of concerns and document accordingly. Assist clients with lease signings and renewals; arrange for interpretation as needed.

Qualifications

RESPONSIBILITIES AND EXPECTATIONS:

Be reliable and on time or early with materials prepared if requested. Be flexible. Last-minute changes are expected when working with clients. Review the IRC Intern Agreement and conduct yourself accordingly at all times. Remember that the IRC in Richmond is a professional office and dress accordingly when on duty. Report your Internship hours by the end of each month.

REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS:

Enrollment in or recent graduate of a related graduate or undergraduate program. Interest in working with newcomers to the U.S. from a variety of cultures and backgrounds Applicant should be independent and organized. General familiarity with greater Richmond basic geography, neighborhoods, school systems, public transportation, or a willingness to learn.