Archives for January 2016

Unpaid Internship/iACT for Refugees

Two spring interns are needed to assist in the Refugee program at Interfaith Action of Central Texas’s (iACT) refugee program. iACT is an Austin nonprofit organization with the mission of promoting peace and respect through interfaith dialogue, service and celebration. iACT for Refugees teaching English as a Second Language to newly resettled refugee adults and youths.

Both interns will have the same responsibilities but will be dealing with separate client lists. Most of the work can be done afternoons, evenings and some weekends. The job includes:

A. Self-managing the implementation of refugee mentoring program which involves (about 5-7 hours a week):

1. Connecting prospective mentors to re-selected refugee youths.
2. Coordinating and conducting a one-time meeting with each family and with mentors and language interpreters to go over the responsibilities and expectations of the program
3. Maintain contact with mentors and youths
4. Problem solving issues and communicating and consulting with the program director.
5. Requesting, organizing and maintaining monthly reports from mentors
6. Reporting on progress of mentorship and maintaining contact with youth coordinator

B. Assisting English as a Second Language teacher in the adult classroom (3 hrs/wk)

1. One evening a week (either Monday or Wednesday, 5-8 pm) assisting the teacher with class set up and preparation
2. Leading groups or helping refugee individuals in the class learn English according to teacher direction

A candidates must be exceptionally organized, be able to work independently, have good people skills and be flexible and creative under changing conditions. Cultural competency and understanding are necessary.

This is an opportunity to work with newly arrived refugees from numerous countries around the world and to make a difference in the lives of teenagers with language and cultural barriers helping them to finish high school as a first step to successful lives.

For information, contact lzeidan@interfaithtexas.org

Client Services Intern, Spring 2016

Interfaith Action of Central Texas is in need of a client services intern for the Hands on Housing program. HoH is a home repair program for low income home owners unable to afford repairs on their homes. This position is perfect for a student hoping to learn more about a career in social services and/or non-profits and will include office work as well as client visits and event logistics and participation.

The ideal applicant will be hardworking, independent, and possess strong communication, organization and time-management skills. Previous experience in client services and bilingual Spanish-English are both preferred, but not required. Having personal transportation is needed. Work hours will include some weekends when repair events are held.

Spring Schedule: Mid January-Early May, 10-15 hours/week. Please send resume and any questions to Program Coordinator, Deborah Schagen at dschagen@interfaithtexas.org