Refugee Services Intern/ Volunteer

Catholic Charities of Onondaga County•Syracuse, NY

About The Position

Catholic Charities of Onondaga County provides compassionate, community-based services that support individuals and families in need throughout Central New York. The Refugee Services program assists newly arrived refugees as they rebuild their lives by providing case management, health services, youth programming, education support, and community integration resources. The Refugee Services Intern/Volunteer supports staff and clients through a variety of direct and indirect service activities. This role provides hands-on experience working with refugee and immigrant communities while helping individuals navigate essential services, education, healthcare, and community life. This opportunity is ideal for students interested in social work, public health, international relations, nonprofit management, education, or community development.

Requirements

Interest in working with refugee and immigrant communities
Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills
Reliable, organized, and compassionate
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Must complete Volunteer & Safe Enviroment Training

Nice To Haves

Fluency in additional languages
Experience in tutoring, youth programs, or community outreach

Responsibilities

Greeting clients and assisting with front desk sign-in and visitor coordination
Supporting the youth program with community service projects, recreational activities, field trips, and academic support
Assisting with evening or weekend programs such as health education workshops, vaccine clinics, or youth events
Accompanying staff and clients to appointments (e.g., DMV, Social Security, healthcare visits, DSS)
Supporting cultural events and community activities with refugee support groups
Tutoring clients in English language learning or citizenship preparation
Helping clients read and understand mail or complete paperwork
Accompanying staff on client home visits
Assisting case managers working with high-need clients, including elderly individuals or those with medical or mental health needs
Supporting public health staff during weekly vaccine or green card medical clinics
Accompanying children walking to or from school when needed
Accompanying clients to immigration appointments
Filing and organizing office paperwork
Making copies of documents and proofreading applications
Helping organize and maintain office and program spaces
Sorting donated clothing and maintaining the clothing closet
Coordinating and organizing community donations (bikes, clothing, furniture)