Refugee Services Intern/ Volunteer

About the Organization

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 .

Interns/volunteers may assist with:

• 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