Immigration Intern

The mission of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is to help people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover and gain control of their future. Founded in 1933, the IRC has a presence in over 40 countries and 24 offices in the United States. In 2011, IRC opened its office in Wichita and provides services to the most vulnerable and at-risk families living in our community. Immigration, refugee resettlement, comprehensive case management for victims of human trafficking and family stability programs are some of the available programs. Services include English language classes, financial literacy, job-readiness training, employment service and credit building programs, after-school peer youth program and civic engagement.

Job Overview:
Immigration is a unique area of law where for decades, non-lawyers have been able to seek authorization (accreditation) to represent individuals in immigration proceedings before administrative agencies. Under federal regulations, several individuals—including non-lawyers—may engage in the practice of immigration law. Organizations that have been “recognized” by the Department of Justice (DOJ) can seek authorization on behalf of an individual to be “accredited” to practice immigration law. The immigration intern will work with the DOJ accredited representative on immigration matters related to the needs of the clients and community.

Major Responsibilities:
Provide general (not individualized) information on areas of law and procedure, such as eligibility requirements for adjustment of status or naturalization and application procedures.
Complete application forms based on information provided by clients in a pro-se workshop or after an individual eligibility determination has been completed by an accredited representative.
Notify clients of follow-up information such as receipt of appointment notices, requests for evidence, and oath ceremonies.
Respond to requests for case status updates from clients (e.g., timelines for interviews or decisions on cases).
Assist with case management tasks, such as entering client information into ETO and updating client casefiles.
Conduct intake and/or completing service agreements (see below for additional guidelines on direct communications with clients.
Research Immigration related topics.
Perform regular and periodic reviews of DHS issued policy, announcements of changes to rules and regulations to keep up to date on the latest DHS directives that impact the populations served by IRC.
Facilitate the development of training materials for clients; develop program materials and contribute to standardization of programming.
Conduct community outreach.
Other duties as assigned.