Citizenship Education Volunteer

Opportunity Title

Civilty Class Volunteer

In-person at various LA Public Library Branches

4-6 months, Flexible hours - evenings and Saturday morning needs

This is an unpaid opportunity.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity, and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home.

The Citizenship Volunteer will serve refugees and members of the local immigrant community by providing the civics and history knowledge needed to pass the United States Citizenship Exam. Volunteers will work closely with the IRC‑LA Adult Education Program Supervisor.

• Share the knowledge required to pass the United States Citizenship Exam by either assisting or leading our citizenship classes.
• Use the provided curriculum, PowerPoint presentations, flashcards, and other materials to teach your class.
• Help enroll students in class.
• Coordinate with IRC‑LA staff.
• Respond to student’s needs within the scope of the class.
• Take charge of necessary documents and pass them on to IRC‑LA staff as needed.
• Occasionally work 1:1 with clients to complete citizenship applications.

• Gain experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds, gaining cultural competency through one-on-one interactions.
• Gain a wide range of communication and interpersonal skills while building a professional relationship with their client.
• Develop teaching and leadership skills that will translate well to other professional endeavors.

• Bilingual speakers preferred (Spanish, Armenian, Farsi, Dari, Ukrainian, etc.)
• Fluency in spoken and written English
• At least a US High School Diploma or familiarity with US History (REQUIRED).
• Flexible availability during the evenings and weekends (usually Saturday mornings).
• Reliable transportation to various LA Public Library Branches.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Engaged in learning about the broader IRC mission, philosophy, global work, and local efforts.
• Willing to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies.

The IRC and the IRC workers must adhere to the values and principles outlined in the IRC Way – our Code of Conduct. These are Integrity, Service, Accountability, and Equality.