Who are our volunteers?

The Refugee Youth Project attracts volunteers from all walks of life. We currently have around 70 active volunteers and are constantly recruiting new volunteers to share their time and energy with Baltimore’s young refugees.

We have volunteers from many Baltimore area universities and colleges, including Towson University, Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland, Baltimore County and University of Maryland School of Law.

We also have volunteers that represent many organizations and professions, as well as high school volunteers seeking a multicultural and fulfilling experience.

Anyone from a full time teacher to an IT professional can be a contributing member of the Refugee Youth Project.

Benefits of Volunteering for the Refugee Youth Project

*Exposure to new cultures and points of view.

*Chance to support refugees in Baltimore.

*Receive free ESOL training and an orientation focusing on Refugees, their history and culture.

*Form life long bonds with program participants.

*Be a meaningful part of a young person’s life.

*Gain hands on ESOL teaching experience.

*Earn service learning hours if you require them.

*Be a volunteer for both an internationally renowned resettlement agency, the International Rescue Committee and Baltimore City Community College.

*Meet new people by being a part of a fun and committed corps of volunteers in Baltimore City.

Volunteer Testimonial

1. I heard about RYP through my school, University of Maryland, Baltimore. I value education a lot and think this is a great opportunity to help kids excel in the areas they want. The students are extremely dedicated to what they do and I look forward to seeing them every week. At one point during the middle of the semester, midterms, I thought I wasn't going to be able to come anymore b/c my schedule was too tight. I walked into the room where we work and their faces were so bright with smiles and their attitudes positive. These kids are wonderful to work with and help put a perspective on what education should be.

Phill Hans, UMBC

2. My favorite memory of tutoring so far is when I was tutoring a young Somali student and we were talking about clothing. The word scarf came up and I showed her my scarf. She asked how I wore it. She has to wear a scarf to cover her head and was amazed that I wore one also. It is pretty cool how many cultural exchanges take place every time I tutor and with an object as simple as a scarf.

Kelly Kauffman, Social Worker