Refugees are most successful when communities welcome them and get involved in their integration and support them in becoming self-sufficient. With so many new arrivals coming, we need everyone to pitch in to help our newest community members be successful! Questions? Email Nikki at nikki@refugeeempowerment.org.
NEW STEPS TO BECOMING A VOLUNTEER/CO-SPONSOR
VOLUNTEER TRAINING
During volunteer training, you will learn about the process from the time refugees are forced to leave their homes to the time they settle in Omaha. We will discuss your role and the people who will support your work. We will review the most respectful approaches to communicating and working with refugees from different cultures.
OPTIONS
Some options for volunteering are:
Co-sponsorship
(Group of 7-10)
This is normally a commitment by an organization such as a religious congregation or corporate body to provide help to one single family for a full year. A group of 7-10 are trained.
This model requires that the group raise at least $3,000 for the family’s needs
With guidance from the case manager to ensure compliance and to ensure core services are met, co-sponsors will be involved in almost every aspect of the resettlement process
Co-sponsors meet weekly with the case manager and family for upcoming needs and guidance
Resettlement Volunteers
(Group of 7-10)
Each group is assigned to one of our Resettlement and Placement Case Managers to complete tasks for several refugee families once a week. The volunteer team may be asked to set up a new home or buy groceries for arriving families. This is a great opportunity for student groups!
Education Volunteers
(Individuals/Couples)
These volunteers may work as individuals or, even better, in pairs and help refugees with needs such as teaching classes and assisting with school enrollments. Some current positions open are:
Employment Volunteers
(Individuals/Couples)
Preferred Community Volunteers
(Individuals/Couples)