Refugee Childcare Supervision Volunteer

IRC in Des Moines is seeking multiple Child Care Volunteers to assist with supervising and entertaining children in the office while their parents participate in programmatic learning in cultural orientation.

TITLE: Childcare Supervision Volunteer

LOCATION:Des Moines, IA

START DATE: Ongoing

DURATION:Minimum 3-month time commitment, background check required

SCHEDULE:Cultural Orientations are held 4-6 days a month on Thursdays and Fridays, typically between 10-4. Shifts are available 10-1 and 1-4. Scheduling is flexible depending on availability.

BACKGROUND: Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee is a leading, non-sectarian, non-profit organization providing emergency relief, protection, rehabilitation assistance, resettlement services, and advocacy for refugees and victims of oppression or violent conflict. Domestically, our 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.

The Des Moines, IA office was opened in July of 2022, serving more than 200 refugees in its first year. Our operations expanded to Iowa City with our office opening in February 2024. The Health and Wellness Coordinator supports clients in navigating complex medical and benefits systems, and designs and connects clients to programs and resources that improve their quality of life.

Scope of Service

The IRC in Des Moines seeks volunteers to assist with child care and supervision during Cultural Orientation programming for parents. Classes range from 1- 6 hours, depending on the topic, and could be held in and out of the IRC Des Moines office. Children range in age from babies to teens. The Cultural Orientation classroom is located directly next to our private childcare room.

RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:

• Supervise and keepcareful watch overall children while classes are in session and children are not attended by parents.
• Make sure that basic needs are met for each child. This may include escorting small children to the restroom, providing food and water, or changing disposable diapers. All products or items needed to facilitate these responsibilities will be provided by IRC staff.
• Provide means of entertainment for children that need directed play. Age ranges for children vary. Some smaller children may need more guided play. Toys, books, and art supplies are provided by the IRC office.
• Report accidents or injuries to IRC staff immediately, if applicable.

Desired but not Required:

• Can speak Swahili, Dari / Farsi, Pashto, French, or Spanish.
• CPR and First Aid Certified

This is an unpaid volunteer position.

How to apply

Go tohttps://irc-global.my.salesforce-sites.com/volunteerand complete the application. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to[email protected]. Once your application is received, a staff member will contact you for a brief interview. You will then receive a link to complete a background check. Finally, you will be contacted to attend a required volunteer training.

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants based on merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.