Healthcare & Benefits Navigation Intern (Unpaid)

About the role

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is seeking a motivated intern to support its Healthcare & Benefits Navigation team in New York City. This unpaid position offers hands‑on experience assisting newly arrived refugees and immigrants with accessing essential public benefit programs and health services.

Key responsibilities

• Assist Healthcare Benefit Navigators with screening and enrollment for programs such as Medicaid, NYC Care, SNAP, WIC, FairFares, Child Care Vouchers, and IDNYC.
• Accompany clients to public‑benefits appointments when needed.
• Sort, review, and respond to public‑benefits related mail and client communications.
• Help schedule medical and dental appointments for clients.
• Develop and deliver educational materials and workshops on public‑benefits navigation.
• Collaborate on updating a Community Resources Guide.
• Maintain accurate case files, both paper and digital, using Excel spreadsheets.
• Adhere to IRC confidentiality and privacy policies.

Required profile

• Demonstrated sensitivity to cultural, linguistic, and personal differences of clients.
• Respect for clients’ beliefs and values.
• Ability to provide translation and interpretation when required.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Required skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel for data tracking and reporting.

What we offer

• Practical experience with U.S. refugee resettlement processes.
• Exposure to a wide range of public‑benefits programs in New York City.
• Opportunities to develop client‑service and community‑outreach skills.
• Mentorship from experienced Healthcare Benefit Navigators.