Preferred Communities
Internship Overview
The Preferred Community Program is an Intensive case management program that helps newly arrived refugees become self-sufficient within one year. This is a great opportunity to improve cross-cultural communication skills, learn first-hand about the lives of refugees living in the Twin Cities, and learn about the process of refugee resettlement in Minnesota.
The International Institute of Minnesota is a dynamic organization that provides services to maximize the talents and opportunities New Americans bring to our state. The Institute assists low-income New Americans in their transition to a new homeland by providing comprehensive services for successful integration. The Institute serves more than 4,000 New Americans annually with new arrival social services to employment placement and advancement through to U.S. Citizenship attainment. Programs are divided into three primary areas: Refugee Services, Education and Employment Training Services, and Immigration Services. The Institute also provides advocacy for policy reforms and supports systems change that improve opportunities for New Americans to move their lives forward.
About the Internship
Please read each section below before applying.
- Assist clients with various immigration applications such as permanent residency (for refugees and asylees), work authorization, citizenship, trafficking visas (T visas), and other benefits for victims for trafficking and labor exploitation
- Conduct interviews with clients throughout the case preparation process to collect information and evidence related to their cases
- Respond to client questions related to their immigration application
- Research applicable laws and legal precedents to provide legal support to the attorney and accredited representatives
- Draft legal documents, particularly legal memoranda and cover letters
- Review case files to determine what additional action is needed by the attorney or accredited representative
- Assist in client interview preparation and attend immigration interviews as a student-certified attorney
- Input case-related information into client database and upload documents
- Minimum of 12 hours/week for 4 months. (We are willing to consider less weekly hours if commitment can be made for more than 4 months.)
- Hours are Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- The position is unpaid, though we are willing to work with the student and law school if they are able to facilitate the earning of class credit through their internship or if they are interested in applying for compensation through a fellowship program.
- Available workspace at Institute office
- Free parking and bus line accessibility
- Individualized supervision with Institute attorney and staff
- Opportunity to gain immigration experience and work directly with clients
About Us
Founded in 1919, the International Institute of Minnesota offers New Americans quality services that support their journey to stability and success. Our comprehensive offerings include refugee resettlement, English education, workforce and leadership development, college preparation and support, and immigration and citizenship assistance. The Institute also provides advocacy for policy reforms and supports systems change that improve opportunities for New Americans to move their lives forward.
Contact Us
Call or email us if you have questions about volunteering.
Kaela Schweisthal
Volunteer and Community Partnerships Manager
(651) 377-8663