ServeMinnesota, as part of the DHS State Afghan Placement Assistance Program, is seeking individuals to serve as AmeriCorps members in their Refugee Response Initiative. AmeriCorps has often been described as the domestic Peace Corps, providing needed community support right here at home. In this initiative, AmeriCorps members are needed to help Afghan refugees in temporary housing and in transitions into community life in MN. They will provide short-term service – from March to June – as individuals and families transition to their new communities. Those working primarily with adults will assist with community orientation classes and navigation through available services (housing, food, medical, legal, etc.). Members are also needed to provide structured activities for children and youth (ages 0-18) at the temporary housing site.
Full-time and part-time opportunities are available with flexible shifts every day between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. Training will begin in February and March. People with language skills in Dari or Pashto are strongly encouraged to apply.
Individuals, 18 and older, who serve with the Refugee Response Initiative will receive a living stipend, health benefits and an education award that can be used for tuition or student loan repayment. Positions will be paid approximately the equivalent of $15 per hour (AmeriCorps members are not paid hourly; they receive a fixed living allowance every two weeks based on their total number of hours served).
Anyone who wants to learn more about supporting the Refugee Response Initiative is encouraged to fill out an interest form at https://bit.ly/DHS_Refugee_Response