Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Founded in 1943 by the United States Council of Catholic Bishops, the agency provides assistance to 130 million people in more than 90 countries and territories in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Eastern Europe. A member of Caritas International, the worldwide network of Catholic humanitarian agencies, CRS provides relief in emergency situations and helps people in the developing world break the cycle of poverty through community-based, sustainable development initiatives as well as Peacebuilding.

About the Fellowship

 The Catholic Relief Services’ International Development Fellows Program (IDFP) gives people who are interested in a career in international relief and development an opportunity to increase their overseas experience and gain exposure to their programs. Each year, CRS places approximately 20-25 Fellows with their country programs overseas. Assignments are for 8-12 months, starting in early September. Specific job responsibilities vary greatly from one country to another depending on the country program’s focus (Agriculture, Health, Peacebuilding, Education, Microfinance, or a combination of these).

Eligibility:

 Graduate degree in a field relevant to international development.

Professional proficiency in French, Spanish, Arabic, or Portuguese. French preferred.

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States

At least 12 months overseas work or volunteer experience in a developing country.

Strong cross-cultural skills with the ability to adapt to the local culture.

Ability to operate effectively in a stressful, fast changing environment where security could change unexpectedly.

Fluency in English with strong oral and written communication skills and strong analytical skills.

Interest in a career in development or emergency relief with Catholic Relief Services

Commitment to CRS Principles

Desire to work for a faith-based organization.

Monetary Support

CRS provides the IDFP participants with the following benefits:

 Stipend of $23,500 annually

 Cost of living adjustment

 Furnished housing

 Transportation to and from the country of assignment

 Medical Evacuation Coverage

 Vacation

Medical, Life, Travel, Accident, and Personal/Household Effects Insurance.

Duration: 8 – 12 months

 Website: http://crs.org/about/careers/fellowships/ 67