RISE Program Intern

Program: Resilience, Independence, Skills, and Empowerment (RISE)
Organization: Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI)

Location: New Haven, CT (In-person)
Duration: 3 months (flexible)
Schedule: 10–15 hours per week (mostly mornings)
Reports to: Economic Empowerment Coordinator

Position Summary

The RISE Program Intern will support the implementation of the Resilience, Independence, Skills, and Empowerment (RISE) Program, a community-based initiative serving refugee and immigrant women. The Intern will assist with program facilitation, participant engagement, logistics, and basic administrative and monitoring tasks. This position offers hands-on experience in nonprofit program delivery and community-based economic empowerment initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Support in-person RISE program sessions, including English learning and empowerment learning and activities 
• Assist participants during group and small-group learning activities 
• Help prepare and organize session materials and supplies 
• Support attendance tracking and basic program documentation 
• Assist with session logistics, including coordination with childcare and program staff 
• Support participant communication and reminders (e.g., WhatsApp or phone messages) 
• Assist participants with basic digital tools as part of program activities 
• Contribute to maintaining a respectful, inclusive, and supportive learning environment 
• Perform additional program-related tasks as assigned 

Required Qualifications

• Proficiency in English (verbal and written) 
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills 
• Ability to work respectfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds 
• Reliability, professionalism, and attention to detail      
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team 
• Interest in nonprofit work, education, community development, or social services 

Preferred Qualifications

• Current student or recent graduate in education, social work, public policy, international studies, or a related field 
• Previous experience in community programs, education, or volunteer work (preferred but not required

Learning Outcomes

The Intern will gain:

· Direct experience working in a mission-driven nonprofit organization 

· Meaningful engagement with refugee women and families 

· Practical skills in facilitation, community outreach, and program coordination 

· Insight into refugee resettlement and economic empowerment work 

· Mentorship and professional development support 

· A chance to be part of a program that creates real, lasting impact