Member-only story
Understanding the Refugee Settlement Program in the US
And Clarifying Some Misinformation About It
Being in the online immigration advocacy space and hosting my podcast, where I speak with immigrants, I felt a nudge to get more involved in person. Last summer, the Women of Welcome community hosted a book club for Solito by Javier Zamora. After everyone read the book, they hosted a Zoom call to discuss it, and during the call, I connected with someone who also lived in Central Florida.
We met up for lunch one day, and as we were talking and getting to know each other, she told me she volunteers with Bethany Christian Services for their Refugee Resettlement Program. She told me about her experience at the airport welcoming refugees. She also mentioned that some volunteers help take refugees to their appointments, grocery shopping, job search, and apartment setup.
I wanted to sign up! She emailed the coordinator with my information. I had to submit an application, share why I wanted to volunteer, get a background check, and provide references for them to verify. Once I got clearance, I had to go for training. During the training, they explained the program, how they help refugees, and ways for me to be supportive but compassionate towards refugees.
