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This is a comprehensive FAQ section, comprising of questions about International Justice Mission in general as well as category specific questions.

FAQ Categories

Casework
Careers
Fundraising
Fellowships & Internships
Giving to IJM
Last Updated ( Tuesday, 05 August 2008 )
 
 

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Casework

What does IJM mean by "collaborative casework"?
IJM investigators, lawyers and social workers intervene in individual cases of abuse in partnership with state and local authorities in the countries in which they work. Working independently of government authorities is not an effective long-term strategy to ensure that the poor are protected from oppressors. Rather, a functioning government is the best hope for lasting change that protects the poor from oppression.

Often, abuse against vulnerable individuals persists because of weaknesses in a country’s justice system. By pushing individual cases of abuse through the justice system from the investigative stage to the prosecutorial stage, IJM determines the specific source of corruption, lack of resources, or lack of good will in the system denying victims the protection of their legal systems. In collaboration with local authorities, IJM addresses these specific points of brokenness to meet the urgent needs of victims of injustice.
What does IJM mean by “structural prevention"?
IJM seeks to impact the structures that allow abuse to occur in order to create lasting change, protecting vulnerable individuals from future victimization.

IJM pursues structural prevention by reducing the vulnerability of at-risk populations and providing training that empowers local authorities to stop abuse in their jurisdictions. IJM works in local communities to build social demand for professional, responsive law enforcement and judicial systems as well as build the capacity of those agencies to respond to injustice.

Pursuing perpetrator accountability also creates a strong deterrent effect for future abuse: Most perpetrators of injustice against the poor do so because they believe they will not be held accountable for their actions. Perpetrators who choose to victimize the poor simply because it appears that they can are not brave people. Even a small number of convictions can have a large impact on reducing oppression, as would-be perpetrators adjust their behavior when the likelihood of being brought to justice and facing a potential jail sentence becomes too high.
Where does IJM work?
IJM currently has ongoing operations in Thailand, Cambodia, the Philippines, Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, Rwanda, Guatemala, Bolivia, Honduras, Peru and South Asia.

IJM is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and is supported by affiliate offices in the U.K. and Canada.
Does IJM take casework in the United States?
IJM does not take casework in the United State, due to its mission of making under-functioning public justice systems work for the poor in the developing world.

Though injustice certainly exists in the United States, Americans (and citizens of other countries in the developed world) benefit from a mature legal system that generally provides effective redress for abuse. This is not the case for IJM’s clients in the developing world.
Why is IJM not active in all countries where human rights abuses occur?
IJM’s efforts to fight injustice are primarily limited by its financial resources. However, in certain countries, government or legal structures do not currently make IJM’s casework methods feasible. IJM’s casework model of repairing broken justice systems does not work in the absence of any justice system – this prevents IJM from being most effective in war zones, for example. However, there are many other excellent NGOs that do courageous and valuable work in such situations.
What is IJM’s relationship with local governments and NGOs?
IJM is a non-partisan, non-governmental, 501(c)3 organization. IJM operates with the governmental approval and acknowledgment in all countries in which it is active, depending on local government and NGO partners to work successfully.
What happens to a victim after IJM intervenes in their case?
IJM partners with other local organizations and government agencies to ensure that the victims are provided with the care they need in the aftermath of abuse. Examples include:

» Homes for girls rescued from commercial sexual exploitation when they are unable to return to their families;
» Micro-enterprise opportunities for adults released from bonded slavery so that they can support themselves;
» Post-trauma counseling for victims of sexual violence; and
» Post-incarceration counseling for victims of illegal detention.
I am an attorney and would like to help with the work of IJM. What can I do?
Although IJM's casework usually requires specialized legal and investigative skills, we often encounter projects that are ideal for volunteer professional assistance. Read more about volunteer and employment opportunities here. In the past, IJM has received pro bono assistance from law firms willing to contribute their services for casework. For more information on having your law firm partner with IJM in casework, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it with your contact information, the name of your firm, and your firm's areas of expertise.
Do American attorneys represent clients in court in overseas?
In most of the countries where IJM works, American attorneys cannot represent clients in court. IJM employees who are members of that country’s Bar Association advocate on behalf of the victims.

Over 90% of IJM’s staff around the world are nationals of the countries in which they work, sensitive to the particular needs of their communities.
Can I interview an IJM staff member?
IJM staff are available for media interviews, but due to high demand, we are generally unable to provide interviews for student research projects or general information about the work.
You are a faith-based organization. What does that mean?
In the tradition of abolitionist William Wilberforce and transformational leaders like Mother Theresa and Martin Luther King, Jr., IJM’s work is founded on the Christian call to justice articulated in the Bible (Isaiah 1:17): Seek justice, protect the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow. IJM’s staff members are Christians from a variety of traditions who are motivated by this call to seek justice for the oppressed. We find strength and encouragement in sharing a spiritual life together. We provide assistance to victims of injustice regardless of their religious beliefs, ethnicity, or gender, and are grateful for the support of all people of good will.

 

Careers

Are you still receiving applications for all positions posted on the website?
Yes, IJM is currently receiving applications for every job posted on our website. Job postings are removed immediately after the position has been filled.
To whom should I address my application?
Address all applications to the Director of Recruiting.
Do I need to submit a separate application for each position of interest?
No, positions of interest should be listed in the cover letter.
If I have previously applied for a job, should I re-submit my application for new positions?
Yes. Please mention your prior application in your new cover letter and explain your interest in the new position. Please attach your previously submitted Statement of Faith and resume (updated with any changes to employment or contact information) to the application.
Are non-US citizens eligible for US-based positions?
US citizenship is not required for US-based employment; however, candidates must have the legal right to work in the US. In most cases, IJM will not be able to assist financially in securing a visa to work in the US.
What is a Statement of Faith?
A statement of faith should describe your Christian faith and how it is relevant to your involvement with IJM. The statement can either be incorporated into your cover letter or submitted as a separate document. It should include, at a minimum, a description of your spiritual disciplines (prayer, study, etc.) and your current fellowship or place of worship.
Why does IJM require applicants to submit a Statement of Faith?
IJM is a non-sectarian community of faith that works with all people to seek justice on behalf of all people regardless of race, religion, creed or any other status. As a faith community, IJM’s core of full-time staff intentionally draw strength and unity from their common commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ and from their communion of daily prayer and spiritual disciplines. Accordingly, IJM staff seeks colleagues who embrace and contribute to the spiritual community through shared Christian conviction and practice. As Mother Theresa did in Calcutta, IJM seeks to provide a common platform for all people of good will to serve the needy, while also building a core community who share her fundamental convictions of Christian faith and practice. Accordingly, IJM asks applicants seeking to join IJM’s core community of full-time staff to submit a Statement of Faith describing their Christian faith and its relevance to their interest in serving with IJM. It is generally helpful for an applicant to provide insight into his/her own journey of faith and as well as current spiritual disciplines. As with any such society of faith, SEC. 2000e-1 [Section702] of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes provision for employment along lines of shared religious convictions.
How do I know if my application has been received?
You will receive an email confirming the receipt of your application within 3 business days.
Will I receive notification of the status of my application?
All applicants will receive a verbal or written response communicating the status of their application.
May I schedule an informational interview?
Due to the quantity of applications that we receive, we are unable to offer informational interviews for employment opportunities.
What is the interview process?
Completed applications are reviewed by human resources and the hiring manager. Phone interviews are conducted with qualified applicants, followed by in-office interviews with the top candidates. IJM completes a thorough review of references prior to making an employment offer.
Does IJM provide benefits to employees?
IJM offers competitive salaries, with excellent medical, dental and retirement benefits to all employees. Additional benefits such as relocation, tuition for school-age dependents and furlough are provided for certain positions.
What is the size of the staff?
IJM has approximately 70 employees at headquarters and roughly 270 employees worldwide.
What is the office attire?
Office attire is business formal.
What is the culture like at IJM?
IJM offers a fast-paced, professional and friendly work environment for its employees. IJM employees work diligently to provide tangible relief for the victims we serve, while being good stewards of the funds generously provided to us by our donors.

IJM employees begin each day with 30 minutes of silence and solitude before God and gather at 11:00 a.m. for corporate prayer. Quarterly staff retreats are held to provide spiritual refreshment and team building opportunities.

 

Fundraising

Can IJM help me plan my event?
Due to the large number of events and inquiries that IJM fields, we are not able to provide planning assistance beyond answering questions and providing resources.  If you need further assistance or have additional questions, please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .
If my company donates to IJM, can IJM's web site link to my company's web site?
Although we appreciate the generosity of companies and small businesses donating proceeds to IJM, we do not offer this service due to the high volume of requests.
Can IJM help me to advertise my event? Can IJM advertise my product or my company?
We currently do not assist with advertising and do not solicit our constituents for events or products not managed by IJM.
Can IJM help secure media coverage for my event?
Unfortunately we are unable to provide media relations assistance for events you are planning, but please feel free to seek coverage on your own. If someone would like to interview an IJM staff member, please e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it  to set this up.

 

Internships & Fellowships

General Questions
Where is the IJM office located?
The IJM office is in Arlington, Virginia and is within walking distance of a Metro station.
What is the difference between an "internship" and a "fellowship"?
Fellowships are designed for experienced professionals and take place in one of our 14 field offices. Field office Fellowships are designed for college graduates and DC Headquarter internships are designed for undergraduates and/or graduates.
Does IJM only select interns who are law students or have an interest in attending law school?
No. Although IJM internships provide a great experience for those considering a career in law, the internship program is designed to benefit those pursuing a wide variety of careers. The majority of IJM employees are not lawyers and most interns are not directly involved in legal casework. IJM seeks quality applicants from all types of educational backgrounds and skill sets.
If I am selected for an IJM international internship position, will this allow me to have direct contact in counseling victims of sex-trafficking, slavery and other forms of oppression?
All international interns and fellows work closely with IJM staff in assisting our clients. Thus they receive exposure to the issues involved in rescuing and providing a new life to victims of oppression. However, traditionally only trained IJM professionals or certain aftercare fellows will have direct contact with IJM clients. Due to language barriers, IJM relies on its national staff and aftercare partners to provide counseling.
What if I have to start later or end earlier than the session dates?
Interns and fellows cannot begin later than the session start date due to the required and pre-scheduled training week. There can be some flexibility with the session end date if it is for academic or business purposes.
Do I have to be currently enrolled in law school for the legal intern programs?
No. All applicants must have completed at least their first year of law school. Current students and graduates of law school are considered.
Can I serve with IJM after I take the bar and before I start at my law firm?
Yes, IJM generally has openings for lawyers who can serve for a period of six months to one year.

Specific Questions Regarding Applications
To whom should I address my application?
Application materials should be addressed to the Intern and Fellows Department.
When is the earliest I should send in my application?
Applicants may submit their completed applications one month prior to the posted deadline.
Is my application due by the deadline date or should it be postmarked by that date?
Applications should arrive to IJM by the deadline date.
What are the application requirements if I have previously applied for an IJM internship?
Please send an updated application form, addendum, cover letter and resume. If you have completed additional coursework, submit updated transcripts. New references and writing samples are not necessary, but will be accepted.
Are applicants from nations outside the United States treated differently in the application process?
No. IJM routinely selects interns who are not from the United States.
Does IJM help secure visas for international internships?
Those hoping to work internationally need to have the appropriate passport and visa(s), or be confident they can attain these documents, both for training week in Washington, DC and for their international placement. While it is the candidate's responsibility to obtain the relevant visa(s), IJM staff will provide assistance in the process.
What if I want to apply for more than one type of internship at the same time?
Candidates only need to submit one application packet, but will need to submit the application form specific to each internship or fellowship type. Please note in the cover letter which positions are of interest.
• For example, an applicant interested in both DC and international internships should fill out the DC internship application and the international internship application. There is no need to submit duplicate copies of the additional materials that complete the application packet.
Does IJM have an early decision process?
If candidates need an early decision due to academic or work restrictions, please note this in the application. IJM makes early decisions on a case by case basis.
What if my application, reference letters or transcripts arrive late?
Your application is not complete until all required documents arrive. IJM cannot make an offer until the application is complete.

Questions Specific to the DC Internship
Do DC interns have to be current students?
No. Many IJM interns are recent college or graduate school graduates.
Is there a minimum age for the DC internships?
No, but applicants must hold a high school diploma or G.E.D. and have completed at least two years of college or applicable work experience.
What is the dress code at the DC headquarters?
The dress code is business formal.
What hours do interns work?
Interns work a traditional 40 hour work week, Monday - Friday. Schedules may be adjusted for academic commitments.
Who will supervise me during my internship?
Each intern will be supervised by someone in their department who will give assignments, monitor projects and provide assistance, support and feedback.
Does IJM provide stipends or scholarships for interns?
Not at this time.
Can I fundraise to pay for the costs of a DC IJM internship?
DC interns can fundraise for the cost of their travel to Washington, DC.
Does IJM provide housing?
No, however upon acceptance, IJM provides interns with resources to aid in their housing search.
What are the estimated costs of living in DC?
Depending on each individual living situation, interns can expect to pay up to $800 for housing. The number of roommates and proximity to central DC make a large difference. Interns may need to pay monthly parking fees for a vehicle.

Specific Questions Regarding Field Office Programs
Where are the IJM offices located?
The IJM offices are located in large cities where there is a significant expatriate community within the vicinity.

Field Office Locations:
• Africa: Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia
• India: Bangalore, Calcutta, Chennai, Mumbai (Bombay)
• Latin America: Guatemala, Bolivia; casework alliance partners in Peru and Honduras
• SE Asia: Cambodia, Thailand, the Philippines
When will I know what country will be my assignment?
IJM will specify the country in which we desire to place the intern or fellow in the offer letter.
Do I need any prior experience or related coursework in human rights or international law?
Although prior experience or related coursework is preferable, there are no specific requirements.
What hours do interns and fellows work?
Interns and fellows work a traditional 40 hour work week, Monday – Friday.
Who will supervise me during my program?
Each participant will be supervised by someone in their department.
What is the dress code at IJM’s international offices?
The dress code varies depending on the local culture. However, all legal interns will be expected to dress modestly in the culture and have at least one formal business suit. During training week, all interns will be dressed in business formal for most of the days.
Does IJM provide stipends or scholarships for interns and fellows?
Not at this time.
Can I fundraise to pay for the costs of an international IJM program?
Yes, international interns and fellows can fundraise for their costs.
Does IJM provide housing?
No, however upon acceptance, IJM assists interns and fellows find suitable housing.
Is there a minimum age for the field office programs?
Applicants should be over 21 and have an undergraduate degree or substantial work experience.

Questions Regarding International Internship or Fellowship Giving
Will I receive a tax-deductible receipt?
Yes, you will receive a receipt for each contribution mailed to the address listed on your check or credit card.
If the intern/fellow through whom I made my donation can no longer participate in the project with IJM, can my donation be refunded?
No, in accordance with IRS guidelines, once a tax-deductible receipt is issued to the donor, donations are not refundable even if the fellow/intern does not participate in the IJM project for any reason.
Can I specify that my donation be used to cover a specific expense such as airfare?
No, the money donated to IJM on behalf of a participant is added to IJM’s general funds and credited towards the participant’s fundraising goal.
How can I be sure you are investing my support wisely?
An outside accounting firm conducts an annual audit of IJM. In addition, an all-volunteer Board of Directors sets policies and procedures and monitors the budget and expenditures. IJM is a member of the ECFA - the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability - to further ensure that IJM is a good steward of the resources entrusted to us. You may view recent financial documents on our website.
Can I mail a check or set up monthly direct debit?
Yes. To mail donations, please make checks payable to International Justice Mission and do not write the participant’s name anywhere on the check, including the memo line. In order for your donation to be counted towards the participant’s fundraising goal, you must submit this slip along with your check to IJM.

International Justice Mission
PO BOX 58147
Washington, DC 20037

Giving to IJM

Where can I mail a check?
Please mail to: International Justice Mission, PO Box 58147, Washington, DC 20037
Is my gift tax-deductible?
Yes. IJM is a non-profit organization pursuant to Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Will I receive a receipt?
Yes. For contributions sent by mail, you will receive a paper receipt. For contributions made through www.ijm.org, receipts are sent automatically via e-mail from This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Please feel free to contact the Donor Relations team with questions at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .
How can I support a specific area of the world or a specific kind of casework?
IJM’s Freedom Partner program enables you to invest specifically in the region or casework most meaningful to you. If you are making a one-time donation, we encourage you to give to the Urgent Need Fund, as IJM deploys its resources in a manner that will be most effective to rescue victims around the world. However, if you have a specific interest in the work of one of our projects, you can direct your gift to a specific region by including a note with your contribution, writing a note on the memo line of your check, or writing in the comments section on the Give Page.
How can I help raise money for IJM?
Whether you would like to hold a concert, a car wash, or a similar fundraising endeavor, we have prepared a fundraising section filled with useful ideas and materials.
Where do you get your funding?
IJM is funded by individuals, foundations, churches, and government grants. We are limited by a board policy to accept no more than 20% of our budget from the U.S. government. A breakdown and annual report of IJM’s funding is available here.
How do I ensure you are investing my support wisely?
An outside accounting firm conducts an annual audit of IJM. In addition, an all-volunteer Board of Directors sets policies and procedures and monitors the budget and expenditures. IJM is a member of the ECFA - the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability - to further ensure that IJM is a good steward of the resources entrusted to us. You may also view recent financial documents on our Web site.
What is the federal taxpayer ID number for IJM?
The EIN, or federal taxpayer identification number, for IJM is 54-1722887.
How do I obtain a copy of IJM’s W-9 or 501(c)3 letter?
You may easily obtain these documents by sending an e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .
How do I update the amount of my monthly gift?
Please feel free to send your updated amount to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . You will receive confirmation via e-mail.
How do I cancel my monthly gift?
Please feel free to cancel by e-mailing This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . You will receive confirmation via e-mail.
How do I change the credit card or bank account for my monthly gift?
Please feel free to set up a replacement gift online through the Freedom Partner page. Alternatively, you can reach IJM’s Donor Relations team at 703.465.5495 from 9:00 to 5:30 Eastern, Monday through Friday.
I am already giving monthly to IJM - do I automatically become a Freedom Partner?
Monthly donors giving at and above the $50 level will be provided the opportunity to select their area of designation and will be automatically rolled into the Freedom Partner program. Details will be sent to monthly donors in October 2008.

 

Online Store

When will my order ship?
Orders are shipped within three business days. You will be notified of any exceptions.
What method of shipping is used?
Orders are sent via standard USPS mail.
Do you ship internationally?
Shipping to international destinations is available. Please email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it to request a price quote for international shipping charges.
Can I request expedited shipping?
Yes, expedited shipping is available. Please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it to discuss expedited shipping options.
How do I place an order by phone?
To place orders by phone, please contact IJM headquarters in Washington, D.C., at 703.465.5495 between 9:00 and 5:30 Eastern time, Monday – Friday.
How do I pay for an order by check?
Please e-mail your order request to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , and we will provide you with an invoice. You can then mail a check with a copy of the invoice to International Justice Mission, PO Box 58147, Washington, DC 20037.
Whom do I contact with questions regarding my order?
Feel free to contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it with any questions.