Refugee Youth Program Intern

Survivors of Torture, International

About the Role

This is a part-time internship position, reporting to the Program Development and Impact Manager, based in San Diego, CA. The Refugee Youth Program Intern supports the refugee youth component of health education and literacy services. This internship offers hands-on experience working with Arabic-speaking, school-aged refugee newcomers, with a focus on culturally and linguistically appropriate Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). This position requires a combination of in-office and in-the-field work.

Learning Objectives

Through this internship, the intern will:

• Develop skills in culturally responsive youth programming and SEL curriculum facilitation
• Gain experience working with refugee and immigrant youth and families
• Learn client intake, documentation, and outcome measurement processes
• Build knowledge of community-based referral systems for services
• Strengthen professional boundaries and ethical practice skills
• Develop cross-cultural communication skills

Key Responsibilities

Youth Engagement & Program Support

• Develop and facilitate culturally and grade-level appropriate Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum during Student Wellness Clubs
• Serve as a positive mentor and role model for youth participants

Outreach & Client Support

• Assist with community outreach efforts to Arabic-speaking students and families
• Support intake, eligibility verification, and enrollment documentation under supervision
• Help connect students and families to additional legal, medical, mental health, and social services

Monitoring & Documentation

• Administer outcome assessments to measure student progress
• Complete program documentation in a timely and accurate manner
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA and privacy safeguards
• Participate in regular supervision meetings and seek guidance as needed

Professional Conduct

• Demonstrate appropriate professional boundaries
• Comply with mandatory reporting requirements for child abuse and neglect
• Represent SURVIVORS respectfully and professionally within the community
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Requirements & Tech Stack

This section is derived from the "Minimum Qualifications" and "Supervision & Support" sections.

• Bilingual in English and Arabic (required)
• Currently enrolled in an accredited university program in education, child development, social work, psychology, or a related field
• Experience working with youth, preferably in a school or community setting
• Strong interpersonal, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated commitment to the human rights of refugees, asylum seekers, and displaced persons
• Commitment to the mission of Survivors of Torture, International
• Must pass a criminal background check, including screening for child and sexual abuse convictions
• Valid California driver’s license, reliable transportation, and adequate auto insurance
• Training in trauma-informed care, culturally responsive practices, documentation standards, and nonprofit program implementation will be provided.

Compensation

• Paid internship position
• Stipend of $20 per hour served
• Expected commitment: an average of 4 hours per week