Home Setup Volunteer

DESCRIPTION

The Home Setup Volunteer provides critical support to meet the basic needs of new arrivals. This volunteer leverages community networks and conducts outreach to solicit & secure in-kind donations focused specifically on household goods, welcome kits, and furniture to set up first homes for our newest neighbors. This volunteer will primarily assist in the vital task of setting up new homes for newly arriving refugees, including unpacking and sorting inventory, lifting, assembling furniture, and ultimately organizing donations to set up homes.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in household setups, including moving mattresses, furniture, and household goods
• Help solicit and secure in-kind donations of household goods, welcome kits, furniture, clothing, and other required supplies for new arrivals
• Assist in the coordination of donation pickups and deliveries from community members including supplies to support temporary housing (hotels) and permanent housing (home setups)
• Assist staff in locating required items in stores to prepare new arrival housing
• Assist staff in logistics of providing the culturally appropriate first meal for the clients upon arrival
• Ensure itemized donation records are completed, signed by client at point of distribution, and returned to IRC Staff

REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to handle sensitive client information confidentially
• Strong intercultural communication skills, including demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and across language barriers
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team
• Must be able and willing to occasionally lift 40(+) lbs.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to support driving for donation distribution
• Comfortable with basic computer skills; familiarly with Microsoft Excel; willingness to learn to use new software for data entry
• Must be flexible, patient, and willing to perform other reasonable activities as needed
• Positive attitude and reliability are essential qualities for prospective candidates
• Adherence to IRC volunteer and workplace policies
• Willingness to use fluency in other languages if applicable.

HOW TO APPLY

All volunteer opportunities are contingent on clearing a background check*. Volunteers must adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies, which includes confidentiality and providing proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Explore and apply online at Rescue.org/Volunteer, selecting Louisville. Email questions to Volunteer.Louisville@Rescue.org.

• Please let us know if you would like to personally contribute a portion of the cost of a background check (~$100 total)—this allows us to allocate more funds towards other refugee services and programs.

FOR SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS, TEACHERS, & YOUTH PROGRAM LEADERS

If you would like to get your students involved in volunteering and/or organize a volunteer day, please email Griffin Glenn (he/him), Community Engagement Coordinator, with the subject line “VOLUNTEER”.

OTHER WAYS TO GET INVOLVED & SUPPORT

Learn more about the IRC’s work at Rescue.org/Louisville

Fight for policies that deliver real change for the people we serve: Rescue.org/take-action

Explore paid employment with the IRC at Rescue.org/Careers

Reports to: Alma Herovic, Community Engagement Coordinator

Coordinates with: Resettlement/Development Staff

Department: Reception & Placement (R&P)

Location: Louisville, KY

Time Commitment: Must have availability within IRC office hours (M-F 9am-5pm); minimum 3-month commitment required

Language Fluencies Desired: Dari, French, Pashto, Spanish, Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Kiswahili, Kibembe, Chin - Daai

WHO WE ARE

The mission of the IRC is to help people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster, including the climate crisis, to survive, recover and gain control over their future. The IRC will put in place high-impact, cost-effective solutions that help people affected by crisis. We'll also use our learning and experience to shape humanitarian policy and practice in ways that improve the lives of more people worldwide. And in all of our work, we will focus on breaking down each of the barriers faced by women and girls.

WHAT WE DO

The International Rescue Committee provides opportunities for refugees, asylees, victims of human trafficking, survivors of torture, and other immigrants to thrive in America. Each year, thousands of people, forced to flee violence and persecution, are welcomed by the people of the United States into the safety and freedom of America. These individuals have survived against incredible odds. The IRC works with government bodies, civil society actors, and local volunteers to help them translate their past experiences into assets that are valuable to their new communities. In Louisville and other offices across the country, the IRC helps them to rebuild their lives through initiatives for economic wellbeing, education, empowerment, health, safety, and overcoming barriers for women and girls.