Fall Internship – Technology and Digital Access Intern – Unpaid

The Technology & Digital Access Intern will work directly with newly arrived refugees to provide technology education and assistance. This position will supervise volunteers to help IRC clients obtain affordable home internet and devices. 

LOCATION;  Hybrid:  in person at IRC office, in the community, some remote

COMMITMENT:  10-15 hours per week; August 23 – December 13, 2024.  Weekly schedule to be determined by supervisor and intern.

COMPENSATION: This is an unpaid Internship. Interns receive mileage reimbursement for driving.

RESPONSIBILITIES:  
Submit Internet Essentials application for IRC clients
Navigate approval process with internet service provider
Take clients to internet provider stores to pick up modems or other equipment
Teach clients to install modem and connect to their home wifi
Support development of digital literacy skills in clients needing assistance with using essential phone applications (email, tenant portal, utility payment, bank account access, etc…)
Research free/low-cost laptop resources and assist clients in acquiring devices 
Manage volunteer(s) to ensure clients receive the above services

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:   
The Technology & Digital Access Intern will learn about barriers to technology and internet access faced by refugees. They will gain experience assisting a diverse refugee population in overcoming these obstacles and learning to navigate their digital life in the United States. They will also develop skills and experience supervising volunteers to support this work. Interns will acquire knowledge about the reception and placement period for newly arrived refugees, core resettlement services provided during this time, and public benefits available for refugees and asylees.

Minimum Qualifications:

REQUIREMENTS

Ability to work independently

Technology experience – setting up modems and wifi

Ability to demonstrate and teach digital access and literacy skills to others 

Comfort communicating with English-language learners

Experience coordinating  or managing the work of volunteers or colleagues