Spring 2025 New Roots Program Intern – Atlanta

BACKGROUND: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home. The IRC in Atlanta office was established in 1979 and has resettled over 30,000 refugees from 50 countries into the Greater Atlanta area. As the largest refugee resettlement agency in Georgia, the IRC in Atlanta resettles an average of 1,000 refugees into Georgia annually and provides additional services and assistance to another 2,500 refugees and asylees. 

SCOPE OF NEW ROOTS INTERN WORK: The New Roots program intern reports directly to the New Roots Program Coordinator and supports efforts under the IRC’s New Roots program. New Roots focuses on bringing refugees together to build connections with their new homes through nutrition, healthy lifestyles, and community gardening. The New Roots intern will provide support for our Youth Food Justice program. The Youth Food Justice program includes, a youth internship program at Clarkston High School, a garden club, and classes on nutrition and healthy eating throughout the community. Please note that all internship positions are unpaid. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist with development and implementation of educational programs for Youth Food Justice program at Clarkston High School and other Clarkston-area schools;
• Support Youth Food Justice internship program for refugee high schoolers;
• Assist with program data collection and implementation.
• Perform routine outdoor garden maintenance as well as administrative duties;
• Assist in grant research and writing for local funding opportunities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Be located locally and available for in-person and remote (hybrid) work;
• Interest or experience in education, especially with high-school-aged youth;
• Strong interest in working with international clients and excellent spoken and written communication skills;
• Ability to work independently and take initiative;
• Basic experience in gardening and ability to lift up to 50 pounds strongly preferred;
• Proven ability to work with consideration and respect for cross-cultural differences;
• A clean driving record and reliable vehicle.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must submit intern hours on volunteer/intern portal.
• Must pass a background check.
• Interns must be able to work at least 15 hours a week, for a minimum of 3 consecutive months (12 weeks) from start date, totaling to 180 hours.
• Some weekend and/or evening work will be required.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States. Please note that we are unable to provide sponsorship for a US work authorization.

The internship will be filled on a rolling basis. We will continue to accept applications until December 2, 2024, or until the position is filled, whichever occurs first. Internship will begin the week of January 20th, 2025.