Exodus World Service

Language practice with delicious perks! When Anna volunteered to help Roya, a resettled refugee, practice English, she didn’t know about extravagant Afghan hospitality. Roya is growing in skills and Anna is getting a taste of a new culture. That’s a win-win!

Back-to-school season is even sweeter with a friend by your side. Daniela, a refugee from Venezuela, lights up during weekly visits with her youth volunteer, Yasmeen. These special friendships create connection, build confidence, and remind resettled kids that they belong.

Learn more about the Exodus Advocacy Network at exodusworldservice.org/advocacy/

University students are back, and we're so glad! Last week, 52 students from Moody Bible Institute and North Park University signed up to mentor resettled refugee kids in Chicago. In addition, DePaul University Vincentians In Action learned about refugees at Heidi's House community center, then deep-cleaned the space for the groups of refugees and volunteers that meet there. Thank you, students, for all your service!

Extra support can go a long way when school assignments get tough for resettled refugee kids. Volunteer Jim helps Kyaw navigate his project, making sure he can move forward with confidence.

Heidi’s House community center in Chicago is a wonderful place for service-learning opportunities. Groups gather to learn about refugees’ experiences, then deliver household essentials to resettled families in the Rogers Park neighborhood. The families receive help and encouragement. Volunteers have a chance to make a personal connection with refugee neighbors.

A basket of groceries can also deliver hope. Many refugee families are no longer receiving nutrition assistance through SNAP. Volunteers like Peighton are delivering Grocery Care Packs to resettled families who are facing food insecurity. “Thank you. You show us that we are not alone,” said Imani, who fled Congo. Learn how you can help at exodusworldservice.org/serve/ .

Teachers agree: the summer slide is real. Without practice, kids lose academic skills during the long break. Yet, with the support of volunteers like Steven, Zaid, a Rohingya refugee, kept reading all summer. No slide for him!