Economic Empowerment Internship - Summer 2026 (UNPAID)

Company: International Rescue Committee
Location: Richmond
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world's largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), at work in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future and strengthen their communities. A force for humanity, IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity and hope to millions. If you're a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, come join us in positively impacting the lives of millions of people world-wide for a better future. 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 22 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home. The IRC in Richmond opened its doors in October 2015 to give refugee families the tools they need to take control over their new lives in the greater Richmond area, assisting them toward self-sufficiency, self-reliance, and community integration. SCOPE OF WORK: The Economic Empowerment Intern supports IRC staff across employment, career development, benefits navigation, digital inclusion, and financial capability programs. Interns assist clients in learning job readiness skills and securing employment, building digital and financial literacy, accessing public benefits and other community resources, and advancing career goals. This role includes direct client support, curriculum development, outreach, and administrative tasks. Specific day to day tasks will depend on the current needs of the clients being served and the program staff’s highest support needs, along with your interests, school studies, and career goals. RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist clients with resume creation, job applications, interview preparation, and job readiness training. Support digital literacy efforts including device setup, internet access, and safe use of online platforms. Facilitate financial literacy workshops and assist with loan applications and banking access. Conduct outreach to employers and community partners to expand opportunities and resources. Develop educational materials and tools, including translatable guides. Maintain accurate records of client progress and interactions. Participate in staff meetings, trainings , and team collaboration. Provide general administrative support and occasional client accompaniment (e.g., interviews, orientations). REQUIREMENTS: Strong interest in working with international populations and promoting economic self-sufficiency. Respect for cross-cultural differences and commitment to equity. Excellent communication, organization, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, internet research, and basic digital tools. Familiarity with resume writing, financial coaching, or digital navigation preferred. Multilingual skills (e.g., Spanish, Arabic, Dari, Pashto) are a plus. Commitment of at least 15 -20 hours/week for a minimum of three months. Valid driver’s license and access to an insured vehicle preferred. PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS All International Rescue Committee workers must adhere to the core values and principles outlined in IRC Way - Standards for Professional Conduct . Our Standards are Integrity, Service, Equality and Accountability. In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Safeguarding , Conflicts of Interest, Fiscal Integrity, and Reporting Wrongdoing and Protection from Retaliation. IRC is committed to take all necessary preventive measures and create an environment where people feel safe, and to take all necessary actions and corrective measures when harm occurs. IRC builds teams of professionals who promote critical reflection, power sharing, debate, and objectivity to deliver the best possible services to our clients. Cookies: https://careers.rescue.org/us/en/cookiesettings US Benefits: We offer a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits. In the US, these include: 10 sick days, 10 US holidays, 20-25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure, medical insurance starting at $163 per month, dental starting at $6.50 per month, and vision starting at $5 per month, FSA for healthcare and commuter costs, a 403b retirement savings plans with immediately vested matching, disability & life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support counseling and care in times of crisis and mental health struggles. Equal Opportunity Employer: IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Keywords: International Rescue Committee, Lynchburg , Economic Empowerment Internship - Summer 2026 (UNPAID), Legal , Richmond, Virginia