Strategic Partnerships and Storytelling Program Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that responds to the world's worst crises, helping people to survive and rebuild their lives. Established in 1933, the IRC has grown to operate in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to providing assistance to refugees, immigrants, and survivors of conflict and disaster. The organization is committed to its mission of helping people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and gain control of their future. The IRC focuses on various areas including health, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations receive the support they need to thrive in their new environments.

Job Overview:
The Strategic Partnerships and Storytelling Program Assistant position is designed to support the IRC Northern California's initiatives aimed at enhancing services for survivors of trafficking. This role is pivotal in building community partnerships, securing in-kind donations, and expanding operational support through outreach to local corporations and foundations. The assistant will play a crucial role in ensuring that survivors have access to essential resources such as housing, legal aid, mental health services, and economic empowerment programs. The position emphasizes relationship-building, strategic research, and ethical storytelling, which are vital for sustaining and growing anti-trafficking programs in the region. The intern will engage in outreach to local businesses and funders, assist in preparing Letters of Inquiry, and contribute to the development of a regional client story bank. While the primary focus is on elevating survivor voices, the storytelling aspect may also support other IRC programs, thereby enhancing fundraising and community awareness efforts. This role offers a unique opportunity to work closely with Development and Program teams, gaining hands-on experience in nonprofit growth strategies, partnership development, and trauma-informed communications.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Strategic Partnerships and Storytelling Program Assistant include:

• Community Partnerships & In-Kind Support: Research and identify local businesses and service providers willing to donate goods or professional services to support survivors of trafficking. Draft outreach emails and meeting requests to engage prospective partners. Document and track donated goods and services, and raise community awareness of anti-trafficking programming.
• Business Development & General Operating Support: Research local corporations and foundations that align with IRC’s mission. Assist in drafting Letters of Inquiry (LOIs) and introductory outreach communications. Support scheduling and preparation for meetings with prospective funders and partners. Develop briefing materials that effectively communicate IRC NorCal’s local impact and funding priorities. Track submissions, deadlines, and outcomes using Salesforce.
• Client Storytelling & Impact: Conduct client interviews in collaboration with program staff to gather strengths-based impact stories. Draft compelling narratives for donor communications, community outreach, and potential local media engagement to increase awareness. Organize and maintain a regional story bank categorized by program and theme, ensuring all storytelling aligns with IRC's consent, confidentiality, and trauma-informed standards.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this position should possess a strong interest in nonprofit development, journalism, communications, public policy, or social justice. A passion for supporting refugees, immigrants, and survivors of trafficking is essential. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required, along with strong interviewing skills or a demonstrated interest in storytelling and narrative writing. The candidate should have strong research and organizational skills, the ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities, and a professional, ethical, and trauma-informed approach to client storytelling. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is necessary, and familiarity with Canva, social media platforms, or digital storytelling tools is considered a plus.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a background in fields related to nonprofit development, communications, social justice, or public policy. While specific degree requirements are not mentioned, relevant coursework or experience in these areas will be beneficial for the role.

Experience:
The position is designed for individuals who may be entering the workforce or seeking practical experience in the nonprofit sector. Previous experience in nonprofit development, community outreach, or related fields is advantageous but not strictly required. The role is suitable for interns or entry-level candidates who are eager to learn and contribute to the mission of the IRC.

Languages:
While no specific language requirements are mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory given the nature of the role. Additional language skills may be beneficial, especially in languages commonly spoken by the communities served by the IRC, such as Spanish, Arabic, or other languages relevant to the local population.

Additional Notes:
This is a paid internship aimed at supporting first-generation students and may qualify for various university programs offering academic credit or funding. The position is hybrid preferred, requiring occasional in-person meetings or community outreach events. Interns must have reliable internet access and a workspace conducive to professional communication, and they are expected to use their own laptop or equipment. Weekly travel to the office is required. All positions are contingent upon passing a background check at no cost to the applicant. The compensation for this role ranges from $22.89 to $24.00 per hour, with pay rates based on various factors including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget. The IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, considering all applicants based on 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. The IRC adheres to core values and principles outlined in the IRC Way - Standards for Professional Conduct, which include Integrity, Service, Equality, and Accountability.