Institute of Politics

Overview of Organization:

The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) is dedicated to promoting the rights of immigrants and refugees to full and equal participation in the civic, cultural, social, and political life of our diverse society. As a means of empowering our immigrant communities to fight back against any deportation forces, ICIRR and member organizations coordinated and created the Family Support Network throughout Illinois. The purpose of the ICIRR Family Support Network (FSN) is to unify, build and coordinate a full range of support – legal, social services, ministry, law enforcement, and political action – for all families being torn apart by our immigration system.

Internship Summary:

An FSN intern confirms the location of the family and walks the caller through the resources – legal services, social services, ministry, worker organizations, etc. – available to them in their area and beyond, and what they can expect and prepare for in the coming days. Gain insights into the challenges faced by immigrant communities and the resources available to support them. Develop research skills to provide accurate referrals and guide families to the appropriate resources. Interns have the opportunity to help with organizational branding with creating outreach materials and coordinating events.

Responsibilities:

• Confirm the location of families in need and provide them with relevant resources.
• Guide callers through the legal, social, and community services available to them.
• Conduct research to ensure accurate referrals and support.
• Assist in creating outreach materials and coordinating events to promote the Family Support Network.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Passionate about immigrant rights and social justice.
• Strong organizational skills with keen attention to detail.
• Effective oral and written communication abilities.
• Resourceful problem solver and self-motivated learner.
• Bi-lingual language skills: Advanced or Native Spanish required.
• Experience with data analysis using tools like Google Workspace, Sheets, and Salesforce.
• Proficiency in design software such as Adobe or Canva (a plus).

About the Supervisor:

Your supervisor will be Jocelyn Aranda-Ortiz. Ms. Aranda-Ortiz is from La Villita on the Southwest Side of Chicago, a neighborhood that shaped her passion for supporting communities in need, particularly in areas like legal advocacy and public benefits. Ms. Aranda-Ortiz has collaborated with community-based organizations to champion several key legislative efforts, including the RISE Act, the Keeping Families Together Act, the Access Bill, and others, amplifying the voices of immigrant communities across Illinois.

Eligibility:

• Undergraduate students
• Graduate students
• Domestic and international students

Location, Modality and Commute:

We have an office in the Loop. ICIRR works primarily in the office Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Interns would be in the office a minimum of once a week on either Tuesday or Wednesday.

Start and End Date:

The Academic Year internships will take place according to the IOP’s timeline, with specific dates and weekly hours to be determined by the employer partner and intern during the interview process:

• Onboarding: November – December 2025
• Intern Work Period: January – May 2026