Volunteer Interpreter - Multiple Languages

Volunteer Interpreter – Multiple Languages

About Rainbow Railroad

Rainbow Railroad is a global charitable organization that envisions a world where LGBTQI+ people are free to live with dignity and without fear of persecution based on their sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics. Our mission is to help at-risk LGBTQI+ individuals get to safety and to build lives free from violence and discrimination.

Since 2006, we have supported over 21,000 LGBTQI+ individuals through our services including relocation, crisis support, and community sponsorship. Rainbow Railroad is a USA 501(c)(3) organization and a registered Canadian charity with offices in New York and Toronto.

The Volunteer Role

Interpreters play a vital role in bridging communication gaps between program staff and LGBTQI+ individuals who are navigating complex systems in search of safety and support. We are seeking compassionate and dependable volunteer interpreters for multiple positions fluent in both English and at least one of the following languages:

● French (2) ● Spanish (1) ● Arabic (3) ● Farsi (2) ● Dari (2) ● Turkish (1) ● Swahili (1) ● Indonesian (1) ● Russian (3) ● Luganda (2) ● Somali (1)

Responsibilities

● Provide oral interpretation during virtual meetings with individuals seeking assistance throughout the casework process

● Maintain confidentiality, accuracy, and cultural sensitivity in all interactions ● Work collaboratively with Rainbow Railroad’s caseworkers and program staff ● Ability to commit for one year on an on-call basis

Qualifications

Personal Skills

● Fluency in English and at least one of the listed languages (written fluency not required) ● Excellent communication and listening skills ● Discretion, professionalism, and a deep sense of empathy ● Alignment with Rainbow Railroad’s mission and sensitivity to LGBTQI+ issues ● Experience working with the LGBTQI+ community and/or asylum seekers and refugees is an asset ● Ability to hear about individual’s trauma and persecution narratives, and act from a trauma

informed perspective

Requirements

● Flexible availability to support remotely during Rainbow Railroad’s regular working hours (9:00am-5:00pm EST) on an on-call basis

● Stable internet access and ability to use digital communication tools (Zoom, email, etc.) ● Interpretation experience is an asset, but not required ● Willingness to participate in onboarding and training

Volunteer Benefits

● Make a meaningful impact on the lives of LGBTQI+ individuals navigating forced displacement. ● Join a global network of passionate, skilled volunteers ● Gain experience in intercultural communication and humanitarian response ● Receive support, training, and recognition for your contributions

How to Apply

If you're interested in becoming a volunteer interpreter, please fill out our application form: ______

Rainbow Railroad welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities. We are committed to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of our organization, and we look forward to welcoming volunteers who share these values.