Help make Iowa more welcoming—gain experience in research, systems analysis, and program design while helping strengthen refugee services statewide.
As a Refugee Services Capacity Building VISTA, you will support statewide efforts to improve service pathways and strengthen Iowa HHS’s refugee‑serving systems. You’ll help the Bureau of Refugee Services assess available supports, identify service gaps, and develop tools that expand long‑term system capacity. This role provides hands‑on experience in program evaluation, research, community engagement, and systems improvement—ideal for individuals interested in social work, public policy, international development, public health, or community systems design.
Your work will contribute to a more coordinated, culturally responsive, and accessible refugee service network throughout Iowa.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop surveys, interview tools, and data‑collection instruments to assess refugee service pathways and system gaps.
- Conduct interviews and gather information from service providers, partner organizations, and community stakeholders (not individual clients).
- Compile, analyze, and summarize findings to support system improvements.
- Map and document existing service pathways, highlighting areas of duplication, fragmentation, or unmet need.
- Draft recommendations and resource materials that help HHS and partner organizations strengthen refugee service coordination.
- Support development of internal guidance, documentation, and resource maps for improved navigation.
- Contribute to capacity‑building efforts that improve communication, data practices, and resource organization within refugee service systems.
- Assist with development of culturally responsive engagement tools or process improvements.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required (and preferred):
- Strong communication and cultural sensitivity.
- Research and data analysis skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Preferred lived experience as a refugee (not required)
- Speaking at near native proficiency in any of the below languages is preferred
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Timeframe:
Length of
Commitment: 1 Year, Full‑Time VISTA Term
Scheduling: Monday–Friday, standard business hours
Worksite: Des Moines
Benefits of Serving:
- Professional development and mentorship from experienced HHS staff.
- Exposure to statewide systems and refugee service networks.
- Hands-on experience in research and program evaluation.
- Networking opportunities with state agencies and community organizations.
- Record of national service for resume and career advancement.
AmeriCorps VISTA Benefits:
- Living allowance paid biweekly
- End-of-service award (Segal Education Award or cash stipend)
- Relocation assistance if eligible
- Health coverage*
- Childcare assistance if eligible
- Access to AmeriCorps training and career development resources
*For details about VISTA healthcare benefits, visit https://americorpsvista.imglobal.com/.
Volunteer Agrees To:
- Adhere to guidelines provided by Iowa HHS and AmeriCorps VISTA.
- Maintain a respectful and professional demeanor throughout the project.
- Devote sufficient time and energy to fulfill the outlined position requirements.
- Acknowledge that this is an unpaid, volunteer position offered through AmeriCorps VISTA.
