As a volunteer, you play an integral part in fulfilling our mission. By giving of yourself, you will not only help a family to make a smooth transition into their new home, but you will also make them feel welcome—even if you don’t speak the same language! Whether you can commit to ten hours per week or ten hours per year, you will make a real difference in the lives of the most vulnerable.
Be a part of the welcoming committee.
Volunteers can get involved in direct service or administrative support. There are many ways to show your support depending on your interests, skills, and availability.
Our field offices have many opportunities for volunteering — please see the list of field office contacts on the right for more information about volunteering at those locations.
(Please note that our Arlington, Virginia headquarters office is not accepting volunteers at this time.)
Mentor New Families
Refugee families come to the states from war-torn countries around the globe and typically have little knowledge of American culture. Volunteers can serve as Family Mentors and meet with refugee families weekly or bi-weekly in a casual setting to help teach them how to assimilate into the American culture. Mentors can serve as a valuable resource to refugee families by improving their English, signing up for library cards, or something as simple as explaining how to take a trip to the grocery store.
Provide Transportation
Volunteers can play a part in taking refugee clients to health care appointments, the Department of Health and Human Services, school enrollment appointments, the grocery story and more.
Teach
Volunteer instruction can include any of the following:
- Basic life skills – paying bills, phone skills, etc.
- English as a Second Language
- Job-search skills – interviewing for jobs
- Public transportation navigation
Administrative Support
Miscellaneous office tasks can include:
- Front desk reception, answering phones, and responding to emails
- Receive donations delivered to the office
- Internships available for special interest areas
- Minimum 10 hours a week during office hours M-F 8:30-4:30
- Administrative support volunteers in Vermont must attend a Bridging Cultures workshop
Legal
Learn more about how to provide pro bono support, please email dclegal@uscridc.org.
Reading Buddies and After-school Tutors
Help refugee youth acclimate to school and excel in their educational journey.
Technical Needs
USCRI is also always in need of volunteers with technical skills. If you are able to assist in any of these ways please email development@uscridc.org. This includes:
- Pro Bono Website redesign
- Videography
- Advertising
Set Up New Homes
Imagine coming to a brand new country with your entire family and only a few suitcases. You would need some help to get started in your new home! USCRI Field Offices appreciate volunteer support with housing set-up to make sure refugee families feel comfortable in their new space upon arrival.