Co-sponsorship can vary from three to 12 months, but we ask co-sponsor groups to prepare for a six-month commitment. Between you and the other members of your group, you can expect to volunteer in multiple ways several times per month or however your schedule allows.

In our experience, 5-10 individuals is the ideal size. This ensures a variety of people who can help at any given time with a variety of volunteer tasks, but we welcome help from groups of all sizes. 

You might provide transportation, tutoring, and meals or you may help the family navigate American grocery stores, register for school, or acquire their driver’s license. By identifying each group member’s talents and strengths, you’ll collectively fill each of these needs. Most importantly, you’ll offer welcome, belonging, and stability—and make new friends in the process!

Groups can be formed by friends, neighbors, a congregation, a pickleball league—any group of adults who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, and who live in or near the community where the refugees will live.  

No. One of the biggest joys and challenges of working with refugees is the ability to connect with people from a different culture and language than your own. We provide specialized training and ongoing support to help build bridges of understanding between your group and the refugees you’re supporting.

Financial assistance is very helpful to support refugees as they get settled, find jobs, and work toward independence. Often, the gifts you give will help with a variety of needs, but rent is the biggest need as refugees work to gain independence.