Program:
The immigration journey is different for everyone, and applications and petitions can be complicated. From answering questions about legal status to translating and submitting paperwork, to assisting with removal defense, we offer clear information and free or low-cost legal assistance for immigrants and their families.
Goal of Position:
Translate documents for Immigration Services staff members or work under direction of immigration attorney to interpret in-person or telephonic correspondences with clients.
Languages Needed:
Arabic, Farsi, French, Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Amharic, Somali, Burmese
- Minimum commitment of 2-3 hours per week for 4 months or On-Call Position, as needed basis
- Fluent understanding of written English and a second language is required
- Must be 13 or older
Highest need:
- Darsi/Farsi
- Pashto
- Nuristani languages
Benefits:
- Help refugee and immigrant families access urgent and necessary services
- Create meaningful cultural exchange and develop intercultural communication skills
Tasks/Responsibilities:
- Translate various immigration documents from a second language to English or vice versa
- Attend meetings between clients and department staff while acting as an interpreter
Qualifications and Requirements:
- Fluent understanding of written English and a second language
- Able to communicate with non-English speakers
- Must be compassionate, caring, and culturally sensitive
- Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
- Must be an organized individual that follows directions well
- Attend a JFS volunteer interview with Immigration Volunteer Coordinator
- Attend a JFS orientation with the JFS Volunteer Engagement
- Must honor confidentiality of client records and sign confidentiality agreement
- Complete HIPAA training
Time Commitment:
Ideal candidates are able to make a minimum of 2-3 hours per week for a minimum of 4 months.
Scheduling is coordinated between the volunteer and staff. The position is on-call.
Worksite/Department:
Jewish Family Service
Immediate Supervisor:
Immigration Staff
For more information on our safety protocols, please visit our JFS Safety page here.
